Kyle, I did my six weeks of radiation and chemo without a PEG, but was extremely disciplined about getting enough nourishment with Carnation VHC, high-protein smoothies, and tons of Boost. I had to put up with a lot of pain to "eat" these things, so used pain meds every four hours at the worst points during tx.

What is the location of your boyfriend's cancer? Since mine was hard palate, I at least had my healthy tongue and throat to help me swallow through tx. If your boyfriend's cancer is in his tongue or throat, it's probably harder to swallow and he may need the PEG.

From what so many on this forum say, the PEG can be a really great aid for maintaining weight and avoiding the discomfort of eating during tx. I would keep asking the doctor about it...