Congrats to Tom for completing his radiation treatments!!!! Its been a long road. In about 2 or 3 weeks he will begin to feel a little better, more like his old self. Dont be surprised if he has a few good days and then one or 2 bad ones. Recovery can take a long time.

Keep up the great job with the nutrition. That is what helps him to feel better. I also supplement my feedings with some high protein powder, it help speed healing. You are doing a great job with the feedings. I cant imagine how doctors can expect someone to have their feedings going 24 hrs per day. My doc prescribed the same thing. I did exactly what you did sped up the machine and had 1/2 a day of freedom.

I didnt try the seltzer either but have heard of its success. Its good to rinse his mouth several times per day with a mixture of 16oz water, 2 tsp baking soda and 2 tsp salt. If the salt burns decrease it or omit it. Rinse and spit several times daily. It will help soothe mouth sores.

Best of luck with a fast recovery.


Christine
SCC 6/15/07 L chk & by L molar both Stag I, age44
2x cispltn-35 IMRT end 9/27/07
-65 lbs in 2 mo, no caregvr
Clear PET 1/08
4/4/08 recur L chk Stag I
surg 4/16/08 clr marg
215 HBO dives
3/09 teeth out, trismus
7/2/09 recur, Stg IV
8/24/09 trach, ND, mandiblctmy
3wks medicly inducd coma
2 mo xtended hospital stay, ICU & burn unit
PICC line IV antibx 8 mo
10/4/10, 2/14/11 reconst surg
OC 3x in 3 years
very happy to be alive smile