The 2001 valve I have is just a friction fit on the 15mm end of my trach; some of the other valves are made to go inside the various kinds of tubing and hardware that exists. I figured that if you are covering the trach as I was doing, you can just slip the valve on there. It has a place to attach a cord so you don't lose it if you cough or blow too hard!

If you download the Patient Handbook from the link I posted, it contains a number of examples of applications of the different valves.

Jexxie,
So sorry you had to find this site. All the advice given was terrific. I agree with Amy, try to find a way to be there if you can before the procedure, not only will it mean a lot to her, it will help all of you. So many members here have been through what your mom is facing and they are here to tell you about it! Keep the faith!!

Amy--Was just thinking about your mom the other day, she was an incredible person, loved by all.

Donna

Listen to AMy,, she has been thru this and undersatnds how your mom and you all must feel. Her mom was very good at boosting others thru this.

Jexxie, Keep your faith strong! My mother just had surgery on 3/31/09 for her fourth recurrence of this cancer and she is weak but doing great! The first three times were oral cancer and this last one was in a lymph node in her neck. She had a right neck dissection and will probably have to have some radiation - we're waiting to hear what the oncologist says. I will be honest and tell you that this is tough cancer to deal with, but this website has so many supportive people with tons of knowledge and experience so they can really help you. They are right - try calling the Amer. Cancer Society and the airlines to see if they can help with the cost of getting there. Being with them will make you and your family feel much better than your worrying and wondering. You all need to stick together now and help each other through this. I will be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. You aren't alone in this. Take care and just take it a day at a time.