Hello Damien, I know the terror you are feeling. I also understand your need to prepare yourself mentally for what may be. For me, it was about knowing that Kris still had curative treatment options.
Kris had his total Glossectomy 18 months ago. He also had additional surgery as you can see from my signature.
Yes it is possible to talk after a total Glossectomy. Try talking out loud yourself while keeping your tongue still. The speech is very understandable, but not perfect. The Electro Larynx you talk about would not be suitable as they replace the larynx not the tongue. A speech therapist would be able to assist with attaining good quality speech.
Yes eating is possible. Kris takes all his nutrition by mouth. Misskate I believe eats a normal diet. Again the Speech therapist would assist with this. You can also buy special spoons that help get the food to the back of the mouth to swallow.
I can't comment on whether a total Glossectomy would be needed as this would depend on where exactly the tumour was, where it extended to etc.
If we were going through this again I would want them to show me exactly how big the tumour is. Where does it extend to. Does it involve the epiglottis.. What needs to be removed to gain clear margins.
I really hope that you are not in this situation. But should you be, try not to panic. There is good life to be had after this surgery. The kids will just accept their Mother as she is.
At the biopsy I would insist on getting the results back within 3 days. 2 weeks is ridiculous and far too long. Make sure they understand that the stress levels will not cope with a 2 week wait.
Please try not to borrow sorrow from tomorrow. Thinking of you both,
Tammy