Hi Pam:
Yes this is normal, or at least it was for me as well. Six weeks out I still struggled to position food properly and swallow. When I did eat it was usually cereal or eggs. Because of no weight gain I lived with a PEG tube for several months post treatment. The appetite does come back, the taste is a big question mark, and my sense of taste fluctuates greatly from day to day. I just thank the good Lord that I can eat and swallow again.
That "fear" is normal but it will get better. If you notice it isn't fading, seek help. You can play a big part in keeping him confident during this stage in recovery!! If he's working out, etc., after 6 weeks I would say he's doing great and has nothing to fear!! "Fear" is what he felt when he was diagnosed, not what he should feel now (even though we all still go there now and again)!!
Hang in there and stay positive. Every day is a gift and gets better.
Best regards,
Steve