MG,

Has anyone mentioned HPV to him?

HPV causes appx 70% of the tonsil SCC cancer and there's tons of info on this site regarding the virus. If he fits the profile he can have his cancer slides tested for HPV.

Did they mention any chemo as part of the TX?

Did they mention a Port or a PEG?

Re the radiation, tell him to eat as much as he can now and be sure to eat all his favorite things. Most likely he will loose his taste and develop severe dry mouth which will last many many months post Tx.

BTW I don't think there are any "usual risk factors" anymore for OC. It used to be primarily caused by excessive tobacco and alcohol; then they linked HPV to the Tonsils and Base of Tongue region and now we're seeing people, and very young ones at that, without a history of tobacco and they are testing negative for HPV.

Anyway best of luck and ask as many questions as you want and don't forget about your needs as his Caregiver as it can get pretty rough on you as well. This Tx can be pretty brutal for most of us but keep in mind the worst part usually only lasts 7 weeks; from the 4th week in to the 3 week post. I always have maintained that this cancer and it's Tx is 50% mental so just be prepared for anything and lets hope he's one of the lucky ones that breezes thru.