Congratulations Darrell, I finished on the same day 2003 and am now doing so well. I didn't use a tube, was able to swallow liquid food throughout. Am doing so well now after an initial slow recovery. I'm off to a restaurant for lunch today confident that I'll be able to eat without any embarassing chokes etc. Small frequent meals seem to be a successful option during recovery. There are recipes and hints for dry, sore mouth on the American Cancer Society site. Best wishes from Helen, with love