So glad surgery is behind you and his healing is well underway! I can't offer thoughts on supplement question, Jim wouldn't even take an aspirin before he got sick. I do know sometimes you have to take matters into your own hands so long as there won't be any bad reaction to something prescribed especially if it helps him feel good. The trach tube does take practice but once I got the hang of it Jim wouldn't let the docs or nurses touch it. I know I babied him...but I'm glad I did.
Your dad is lucky to have such a caring daughter. Take care!

Hi - if he's going for radiation best not to do any supplements until after he's finished rads for about a month. Some of them can interfere with the work radiation is doing and usually the recommend stopping them 1 month prior to treatment. I guess the figure why start as they usually do rads within 6 weeks.
As for dr Irish he is awesome. Really - bedside manner comes and goes with him. I get the feeling he is super busy but has never blown me off or my concerns he was actually very approachable last month when I saw him. I just know that he takes 15 hrs to work on a patient, he's sees cancer all day long, and must have multiple surgeries weekly so I cannot imagine how he's not tired and frustrated all the time. last time he seemed far more relaxed and so it depends on the day - his fellows are usually quite fantastic. Dr. Gundulac who was his fellow during my time with him was amazing. thes a new guy now from Sweden or something he's also quite nice.
Truthfully unless the guy is a complete turd - I don't mind if they have a bit of attitude - he's earned it - he's the head of the clinic, a pioneer in his field, and an amazing surgeon... At the top hospital in the country...
Worry not your dad is in good hands. Hugs!!!

Lea

[quote]Question: My dad has always been a health freak. Supplements and vitamins are a part of their lifestyle. I can't seem to convince the doc's to allow for a probiotic to be added to his mealplan. He finished his antibiotic a couple of days ago, and I'd like for him to start supplementing again and rebuilding wellness inside out. I am shocked at the resistance to natural health practices from the doc's and dietitian. Is this the common?
[/quote]
Answer YES. In the US, it is very common since no doctor or hospital wants to get sued for malpractice when the National Cancer Institute has a bulletin out saying supplements etc can interfere with the radiation AND WORSE MAY PROTECT THE CANCER CELLS.
NCI: Dietary Supplements and Cancer Treatment: A Risky Mixture
While some studies suggest that probiotics can be helpful when radiation is given to the abdomen, pelvis, etc, there are none showing any good effects for radiation of oral cancer.
Plenty of time to take whatever he wants once treatment is over. Better safe than sorry in this instance IMO
Charm