Welcome to OCF, Wendy! You have found the very best place for info and support. We understand where you are coming from as we have been thru similar situations ourselves.

Im sure you are much stronger than you are giving yourself credit for. Who wouldnt be scared facing what you described! Its completely normal for you to be afraid of what your future holds. You are going into uncharted territory and battling a potentially deadly disease. By reading about your illness and its treatments, you will become a strong advocate for yourself. This will also help you to feel more in control.

Ive had a trach and it was not fun but looking back it wasnt the worst thing Ive been thru. Tell your doc you want a possey muir valve trach so you will be able to talk if you are able to. I also suggest seeking out a speech pathologist now so you are prepared for after the surgery to begin getting help. The earlier you begin, the better response you will have.

If you havent already started eating all your favorite foods, do so now. You will go thru a period where you are unable to eat and you sure dont want to have cravings during that time, so eat now! Dont worry about putting on a couple pounds either! You will likely lose weight with the treatments you mentioned.

Anyone who offers their assistance, tell them when the time comes you will let them know what they can do to help. Make sure to write everyones name down for later in case you need someone else to give people a call or text to get them to help. You likely will need people to stay with you as much as is allowed after your surgery. You probably will not be able to be understood by hospital staff so you want to have someone there to be your advocate and your voice until you can speak for yourself. You may want to bring a dry erase board and a little bell to the hospital. The bell will alert staff and your advocate when you need something.

Prior to any treatments, see your dentist for a thorough check up and take care of any questionable teeth now. Get a complete blood work done, including thyroid levels as they likely will change down the road after having rads.

Its not easy facing upcoming life changing surgery. By focusing on what within your control it helps to make it slightly easier. By being productive and staying super busy, it will help you to pass the time. Be aware that depression is common with OC patients and its nothing to be ashamed of if you need help to get thru it. Many patients (and quite a few caregivers too) depend on anxiety meds and therapists to help them on a temporary basis. Its all just another tool (just like the trach and feeding tube) to help you manage your illness.

Stick with us and we will help you every step of the way. Best wishes with everything!