JC and Robin .... About the PEG tube -- It is such a minor issue compared to everything else you will be going through that it really isn't worth the worry. I didn't have a choice about the PEG tube, my ENT just said it was going in and that was it, so by that time I had to trust that getting the PEG was the best thing for me.

The thing about the PEG is that you don't have to use it until it is necessary. You can eat orally for as long as you like, and even thru the whole treatment process if that is what you choose; however, the PEG just makes eating and drinking so much easier. With the PEG you no longer have to worry about getting enough nourishment to promote the healing process. You don't have to struggle with food and liquid and the pain involved in swallowing, nor do you have to worry if you're getting enough calories. Dehydration is a huge concern while going thru treatment and with the PEG getting enough liquid is so much easier. So much. The PEG is easily hidden beneath clothing so no one will ever know it is there and it does not stink. (my biggest concern) I cannot think of one reason not to have a PEG tube inserted. Not one. The surgery to put it in is minimal, and while there is some pain involved it too is minimal. I was sore for one day, I think. The PEG is easy to take care of and rarely needs to be adjusted or removed or replaced for any reason.

At about four weeks into treatment you won't be able to taste food anyway and it does become difficult to even want to eat. I know that had I not had the PEG eating would have become a major issue for me. I didn't want to eat, or even try to eat for a long period of time while I was going thru treatment, yet I knew that if I didn't have some sort of nourishment the healing process would take so much longer. I also had a difficult time keeping myself hydrated enough to keep me out of the hospital and that was with the PEG tube.

OK, I'm getting carried away here .... but as you can see, I am clearly an advocate of the PEG. Having a PEG tube inserted just simplifies everything making it easier for you to get on with the process of healing instead of worrying about how you're going to get enough caloric or liquid intake. Hang tight JC and Robin, we'll be here rooting for a speedy treatment and recovery. Keep us posted. Sincerely Donna