Ray:
What a nice, caring brother you are to write for Fred.
A productive life can be led with having a feeding tube. I have had one for 1 1/2 years was free from it for 6 months and now have it again for 8 months. Life is what you make it. We all need to learn to come to peace with our limitations. While I detest relying on a feeding tube, I do it since its necessary. It doesnt mean I like the situation at all, I hate it. Im sure your brother is very upset about what has happened. Late effects do happen to alot of radiation patients. Sorry to hear it happened to him after 5 years.
It is not necessary to lug the cans, syringe, bags around with him. For me the pump works since its something that is scheduled. I know that evenings Im on the couch with it running then it runs overnight while I sleep. All it takes is planning in advance to do the feeding before or after any events or dinners. Ive already ordered a glass of water and soup and sat there pretending to eat. Now I no longer bother with the charade. It will take your brother time to adjust to this new routine.
Best of luck
