Yes - maybe your parents could mention his behavior change to the dr. I was seen weekly at the rads clinic for a check up with my radiation oncologist, and difficulties should be mentioned. And he needs to be reminded to swallow, and truthfully, he probably knows he's being mean. It is likely the frustration and the drugs, but his pain should be under control. If its not that should be address. The most important thing you need to do (not your parents because they are probably too stressed) is go visit your brother. Make a point of telling him you feel bad, but this is not your fault. He has to stop taking his anger and frustration out on you and your parents. And finally one of the major reasons people are forced to live on a tube after treatment is over is because radiation damages the muscles used in the swallowing reflex if you do not continue to swallow, even little bits of water you could very likely lose it all together. So tell him if he wants to feed himself from a tube for the rest of his life - go ahead - be stubborn. Some people, have had so much radiation to save their lives that they know it will be a trade off, and some don't know that not swallowing will cause this until it's too late. Another group has no choice, based on surgeries etc... He has a choice right now to do whatever he can to get back to as close to 100% as possible. It's very doable. But it's up to him.

actually print that and all the other advice given. maybe then he'll get it. I have a husband, but I also have a nursing background and my hubby leaves the medical knowledge to me so I knew before going into treatment, that he would supply the food and what not, but I would be the one who had to motivate myself. SO I refused to indulge in a pity party, and did what I had to do. Period. That way if things didn't work out.. the only person to blame was ME.

you know the old addage... you can bring a horse to water...

well give him the knowledge and support, and make sure he knows he has to follow through on his end of the bargain.

hugs! you're a good sister.