Melodie, I suggest talking with your husbands doctor about when David is able to start working with a speech therapist. His doctor would understand the entire situation and know how he's doing with his healing.

Ive seen some patients get sent home from the hospital with their trach. Most are able to get it out prior to being released. Make sure you check with the hospital about having a visiting nurse to come out to help with the trach. Most insurances cover this but too often if the patient/caregiver doesnt specificaly askabout a visiting nurse they dont get one. Ive had visiting nurses many different times and found them to be very helpful. Itm sure it would be a huge relief to have a professional check in on your husband a few times a week to ensure he's doing ok. The trachs are not difficult to take care of but they do require work and frequent cleaning. I too had the passey muir valve type of trach and was able to talk much easier.

Best wishes to you both!