Hi Paul. Welcome, though it always saddens me that others have need of this group. That being said, this is the place for support and advice. I could not have got through myself without the help of those on this forum.
Christine has given you great advice on oral intake.
My husband Kris had to have the feeding tube, the PEG, inserted before his team would start radiation/chemo. It was a life saver.
Please come here with any queries or concerns as you progress through. We are here to help you. Nothing is a stupid question. Many have walked this path before you and we are very willing to share and help.
I hope you have a great support person with you and that you are not doing this alone.
Tammy

Caregiver/advocate to Husband Kris age 59@ diagnosis
DX Dec '10 SCC BOT T4aN2bM0 HPV+ve.Cisplatin x3 35 IMRT.
PET 6/11 clear.
R) level 2-4 neck dissection 8/1/11 to remove residual node - necrotic with NED
Feb '12 Ca back.. 3/8/12 total glossectomy/laryngectomy/bilat neck dissection/partial pharyngectomy etc. clear margins. All nodes negative for disease. PEG in.
March 2017 - 5 years disease free. Woohoo!