Nate - It is so good to hear from you again!!! You did a very smart thing by going to your Mom's for the first couple of weeks. I'm sure it helped her, too - to have you close by so she could check on you. You are on your way, now, Nate! Everyone recovers differently but you've already seen progress with the coughing and gagging getting better. My son didn't have the tube but I'm sure someone will be along who has had more recent experience and similar to yours. Make sure and have any questions ready when you see the radiology people on Tuesday. Hope every day sees more and more positive things happening for you!