The tube I had was straight to the stomach, no swallow of tube necessary. Because I already had feeding issues prior to cancer, we went for it (not happily) due to doctor's suggestion. It turned out to be absolutely necessary for me. And if you're stubborn, it's not likely something you'll want to become dependent on ... you have to really limit your physical activity and what positions you rest in, just to not dislodge the thing. It's NOT 'fun' whatever that doctor may think, and certainly not an easy way out. (I may have been further inspired by not tolerating the formula well, sigh.) But yes, whatever you do or don't have, keep up the dry (or water) swallow exercises ... that speeds the recovery.

You do what YOU need ... you have the doctor's recommendation, and that's good, but you know you and your perseverance and your food abilities.