In June 2021, Jim Hampton experienced a complete loss of voice that lasted more than a week. He initially attributed it to enjoying himself a bit too much while on vacation in Key West, Florida. Although his voice eventually returned, persistent hoarseness continued for several months.
In August 2021, Jim consulted an ENT specialist who performed an endoscopic examination.
I can recall it as if it were yesterday, Jim explained. He told me, ‘I believe it may be cancer.’ A biopsy a week later confirmed his suspicion.
Within weeks, Jim began treatment, undergoing 35 radiation therapy sessions over a seven-week period. Over the following two years, he underwent routine surveillance with serial scopes—initially monthly, then every three to four months.
Jim’s voice never fully recovered after the biopsy and radiation treatments. While he initially dismissed the ongoing raspiness, his symptoms persisted into late summer 2023. A follow-up scope in August 2023 revealed what the ENT believed to be a granuloma related to prior radiation and possible reflux. Jim was offered higher-dose reflux medication with the option to monitor the lesion or proceed with another biopsy. Because a biopsy carried the risk of permanent voice damage, Jim initially chose medical management. After further discussion with his spouse, however, he opted for the biopsy for reassurance.
Although the ENT had expressed confidence prior to the procedure, his concerns changed postoperatively. Within 24 hours, Jim received confirmation that his cancer had recurred.
In December 2023, Jim was referred to UF Health Shands in Gainesville, Florida, for further consultation. Despite difficulty staging the recurrence, the ENT surgeon recommended a total laryngectomy, leaving Jim with questions due to the lack of discussion around less invasive treatment options.
Jim’s case was reviewed by a multidisciplinary tumor board, which offered additional options, including immunotherapy followed by low-dose radiation if tumor reduction was achieved. Jim elected to pursue immunotherapy. After four monthly infusions, the treatment began attacking healthy cells. Jim then sought consultation regarding a possible partial laryngectomy. Ultimately, due to the high risk of aspiration and the potential need for a total laryngectomy later, Jim chose to proceed with a total laryngectomy in July 2024.
The surgery included a partial pharyngotomy and bilateral neck dissection, with more than 50 lymph nodes removed. Pathology revealed stage III/IV disease with clear margins and no lymph node involvement; however, perineural invasion was present. As a result, Jim underwent an additional 30 radiation treatments in October 2024.
In March 2025, Jim retired earlier than planned, as he was no longer able to meet the demands of his career. His role was remote and required strong oral communication skills, including employee oversight, negotiation, presentations, and regular meetings with state regulators nationwide.
I feel truly blessed to be where I am today, despite not having a ‘voice’ per se, Jim shared. I was not a candidate for a voice prosthesis due to the risks associated with a second round of radiation, but I have adapted well using an electrolarynx.
Motivated by his experience, Jim founded The Florida Laryngectomee Association, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing statewide support and resources for the laryngectomee community. His vision is to help individuals facing head and neck cancer navigate their journey from diagnosis through survivorship.
