Jerome, many may not agree with me here, but get that tube out now & start eating real food! You can do it obviously! You'll feel better all around, from my experience. I went swimming like a week after the tube was out! Be proactive & keep trying different soups or whatever. Whatever it takes! You can do it! It sounds like you are a very strong person & have been through a lot. Find your new normal as far as eating & your life will level out too. At least that was my experience. Erik


dx 2/11/04 scca bot T3 IU 2B MO poorly differentiated, margins ok, 3/16 modest, jaw split, over half of tongue removed, free flap from left forearm - finished chemo & rad treatment 5/20/04