Calli, it will get easier! The thick gunk can be removed with a waterpic or a suction machine. You can rent it with a doctors prescription from a medical supply company. Once the thick mucous is gone he will develop dry mouth which will be a relief. Carrying a water bottle around will be his new routine for a couple months.

Recovery for what your husband has gone thru can take a few months, even a year or 2 to fully heal. So much depends on his age and pre-cancer condition. A diet high in protein will help him to recover. Also his daily calories should be 2500 with 48 oz of water. This will help his body to rebuild itself and gain strength.

Try setting very small daily goals. Sit outside for an hour, walk to the mailbox a couple days, next to the end of the block for a couple days. After he has mastered that try making it around the block or if you have a dog walk a dog. Get him moving just like what they do in the hospital. Nothing strenuous but it will help him to have something to break up his days and something to look forward to.

Good luck!