Hi, Vanessa,

Welcome to OCF! My husband had a similar surgery. Last November, he also had a fibular graft to rebuild his jaw. Walking was very painful at first and for a while, post surgery, he used a wheelchair when we'd go back for Dr. appts. Today, he is doing very well, moving around and playing golf! He still has his PEG but relies on it very little.

All of this is overwhelming and it is not unusual for your Mom to feel depressed. Be as supportive as you can by reassuring her that she can do it, that you will help her, and that every day is closer to being well again.

As for anti-depressants, they can be another tool to help get her life back on track. While my husband did not take them, I did. As his caregiver, I found myself slipping into a dark void. The demands of caregiving are well documented, and can sneak up on you.

Clark's last 2+ years have been very bumpy with repeated infections but we celebrated little victories as he moved toward recovery. They became milestones and benchmarks that he was getting better.

I love that the people on this site are not only supportive and informative, some have become my friends. While Clark does not use this website, he is interested in what I have learned here and what other people have experienced.

I wish you and your Mom all my best. And keep coming back. This is a great community.

Anita