Steve,
If you have a total, do they think you will be eligible for a TEP? My voice is fairly good, although not as good on the phone as in person. If you would like to talk to me, email me your number and good time to call and we can chat.

I was told if they did a partial, it makes your voice very breathy and I probably couldn't eat. Would need peg for life but that was because of the location of my tunmor. My surgeon wouldn't even consider a partial for me.

There is always esophageal speech which is difficult to learn. Have you ever been to a meeting of laryngectomees? Most speak just fine and many you can't tell they ever had surgery.

What is your doctor telling you about your ability to speak after the surgery? How many of these surgeries has he done? Are you are at a CCC? Why do they feel the radiation might not work? I know time is of the essence, but I think I would like a second opinion, especially if you are not at a CCC.

Take care,
Eileen