This November 2025, just two days after my birthday, my world changed when my boyfriend Tom was diagnosed with Metastatic nonkeratinizing squamous cell carcinoma. The news came out of the blue, and the cancer was found in his tonsils, on his tongue, the back roof of his mouth, and in his lymph nodes. This led to multiple procedures during a single operation at Winn hospital. During surgery, doctors also discovered that Tom’s interior jugular vein had been unknowingly damaged, and if the surgeon hadn’t fixed it, it could have led to a stroke at any time.

The operation was incredibly painful and extensive. Tom had to undergo surgery not only inside his neck through his mouth—removing his uvula, tonsils, part of his tongue, and salivary glands—but also on the outside of his neck to remove infected lymph nodes covering almost the entire right side. The surgeons even had to relocate part of his neck muscle, the Sternocleidomastoid, to protect his jugular vein from further damage.

To all who know my Honey, Tom, you know he is a hard-working, caring person who is always willing to help others. Now, he is facing the fight of his life. At just 57, he is a loving grandfather to seven children, the youngest only 17 months old, who adore him and see him often. With Tom unable to work, we are struggling to cover living expenses, rent, utilities, food, and the mounting medical bills. I appreciate everyone in advance who has taken the time to donate. Your support will make a meaningful difference in Tom’s fight against this illness, and we are deeply grateful for any help you can give.