My experience is quite similar to Khaja although I have a different type of cancer. My ENT surgeon advocated surgery to fight against cancer but the team of doctors overseeing my case opted for concurrent radiation and chemotherapy in view of the large size turmors in my tonsil and left neck. Operation would mean involving an extensive area of tissues in both my throat and neck, which would very likely damage my voice and my facial appearance. They planned to shrink the tumors fist and surgery afterwards. I was so lucky that when the treatment was over, all follow up scans did not detect active cancer cells and surgery was therefore unnecessary. I am over 2 years post diagnosis, no one can tell I am a cancer patient from my look. I fully agree with Khaja that everyone is different but getting a second opinion on your uncle's case can be helpful.

Karen stage 4 tonsil cancer diagnosed in 9/01.