Hello Sue Marie and David,

Thanks so much both for writing back - I cannot tell you how appreciative I am because Im signed off sick from work now and climbing the walls with worry so to know there is someone out there and who has responded is amazing for me. Thank you so much. I think Im going to find it daunting seeing all the tubes he will be attached to post-op and they have said he would not be able to speak because of the trachy in place for about 10 days. Do you think he will be awake post op after a day or two, or will they keep him sedated for quite a few days? They have said he will be in hospital for 2-4 weeks. I must admit, the continued smoking does bother me, but he has been trying to cut down but I take your point about him stopping NOW. Honestly, I do. If only he would listen to me. We are so different - I face things head on and I want to know so much information - as much as I can - and he is an ostrich and doesnt want to know a thing but I have said we are on this journey together so he needs to do that for me at least - stop the ciggies. David, when you said zero chance of survival, do you mean if he continues to smoke after he has had his op. or immediately post op? sorry to ask a blunt question. The docs have not said much to him about smoking - only that it would be ideal if he gave up. The word ideal seems a bit lame to me. They have said his chances of recovery immediately post-op will be better if he does give up, but they havent pushed it exactly. They have said (the surgeons) that 50% of all patients have complications post-op, infections etc. that is very worrying. My mind is all over the place today. My doc has put me on sedatives so Im going to have one now to see if that helps. Please keep your information coming - Im so thankful, really I am. Love to you both. Judith xxx