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Tea Choke Reveals Dad's Throat Cancer
17 Aug
Summary
- Choking on tea led to discovery of oropharyngeal carcinoma.
- Dad struggled with swallowing and throat issues for over a year.
- Family fundraising for a holiday before cancer treatment begins.
A potentially life-saving choking incident in July 2026 brought a sudden diagnosis of throat cancer for 66-year-old Colin Hodgkinson. For over a year, Colin had suffered from throat issues and difficulty swallowing, but medical professionals were unable to pinpoint the cause, often prescribing antibiotics.
His condition led to a hospitalization for pneumonia in December 2025. While visiting his daughter Connie in July 2026, Colin choked on a cup of tea. Attempting to avoid spilling it, he collapsed in the kitchen, hitting his head and requiring hospital treatment for a split open head.
During his hospital visit, speech and language therapists noted his swallowing difficulties. Scans then revealed a significant mass on his neck and throat, confirming a diagnosis of oropharyngeal carcinoma. His family is currently uncertain about the cancer's advancement but has initiated a fundraiser to take him on a family holiday before his treatment commences.
