Hi Laura,

Great that you are not having too much trouble.

I was one of the folks that didn't get a tube. My personal feeling is the less they do to you the better off you are. (less potential for complications). I know there are people here that feel the PEG tube was critical. To me, if you are doing well without then it will not hurt to wait and see. Just don't try to be a hero.

There is a benefit to chewing and swallowing normally during this period. Swallowing involves a number of muscles in the area and these need excercise just like any other muscle. (Use it or loose it) Radiation will affect these muscles to some extent and regular use (swallowing) will help.

My swallowing during treatments hurt like hell, and those of us that had tonsillectomies get more hurt for the dollar as well. I was able to get by with the help of a blender. I "blenderized" anything: eggs, Steak, hambergers (an entire Whopper with cheese worked). I ate pretty much what the family was having at meal time plus in between. Eat when ever you are able.

Be sure you are getting more than just calories, Protein is especially important because of the tissue that is being rebuilt at a high rate. The importance of water cannot be over stated.

Keep up the good, get rid of the bad.