Stephany, I am not a doctor, but in my opinion, it is well past time for it to be "necessary" for your Mom to have a peg inserted. The procedure is not a big deal and it will give her the needed nutrition and hydration. I had mine put in just prior to my second chemo and 16th. rad treatment. I kept it 5 months after treatment ended and used it for food and meds. It was a very important part of my treatment. If your mother won't listen to you, ask the doctor to insist she have it done. This should already be happening. My doctors told me that they would force me to have it installed if my weight continued to go down. I had it put in and was much happier from that point on. Also, removal is no big deal. They took it out before I even knew it was gone. So there should be no fear element involved. Your mom is hurting her own recovery.

Also, the "magic mouthwash" was mentioned. It is a concoction used to deaden oral pain. I used it sometimes before I ate, when I was first starting back on solid foods. It worked well for me. It might help your mom.

I don't remember where your mom is being treated. Is she at a major cancer center? If not, she should get an opinion at a cancer center. They have a lot of experience in treating this disease. Hope all goes well for you and your family.