I think you'll do fine! It is.a life changing diagnosis but attitude makes a major difference in outcome and how well you do. The first few days post op aren't too bad despite the surgery - if you have a neck dissection there will be minimal pain because you are numb! You'll be drooly - if you have a trache you won't be able to speak so bring a tablet or something to write on. You may have drains. But they come out quickly - usually. Being suctioned is not fun of you have a trache!! They will also have a suction machine at bedside to suck up the drool in your mouth... We were very close for the first 5 days! It was my best buddy. They'll also out in an ng tube for nutrition. But rest assured a few weeks later you should be getting back to normal.
Hugs!