Rosie,

How close together was the surgery and radiation? I had IMRT radiation ending Sep 1 where I did not use a peg. I had follow-on surgery on Nov 5 due to a recurrance. The tumor was removed from the throat which required a trach during surgery and a feeding tube. I had the feeding tube in for over three weeks, because it took that long to be able to swallow. I am still on a liquid diet. All of the adverse effects of radiation had healed, yet, due to the radiation my healing is compromised and continues at a very slow rate.

Be patient. Use the peg as long as you need to use it. Exercise the mouth and throat as the therapist dictates. Be patient. It has been the hardest thing for me. I bounced back from my first two surgeries very quickly, and I know the frustration.

Merry Christmas!!

David