Thanks, all. I like your stories - thanks especially for the WWll and Vietnam references- I shall use them. My mother actually- reluctantly - started tylenol with codeine two days ago and now we have a script for something to numb the back of the throat. Apart from being thought a wimp she is anxious about constipation. Not sure how to get fibre into her since she is drinking milkshakes by the teaspoon,literally.

The last week of radiation is coming up. I understand it keeps working for 2-3 weeks after that so I anticipate a downhill slope for awhile.
I may call on you agtain! thanks, until then.
WD