Thad’s head and neck cancer journey began in 2019 when he noticed a lump on his neck that kept getting bigger. A biopsy soon confirmed HPV-mediated oropharyngeal cancer.

He met with radiation and medical oncology teams and chose to receive all treatment at one facility to make the months ahead manageable. He began chemotherapy and 35 radiation treatments. Side effects came on quickly: difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, extreme fatigue, neck burns, tongue sores, mucositis, taste loss, and significant weight loss. He kept going with two goals in mind: follow every instruction and avoid a feeding tube. His strength training background helped him manage the physical toll, and his CPAP machine unexpectedly eased some of the worst throat symptoms.

He finished treatment exhausted and 40 pounds lighter, but healing gradually began. Three weeks later, he could eat solid food again. His post treatment PET scan showed no evidence of cancer, and today he continues regular follow ups while managing lingering effects like reduced saliva, taste changes, tinnitus, and Lhermitte’s Syndrome.

Thad credits his outcome to the skill and compassion of his care team. He remains focused on recovery and looking ahead with gratitude.