Judith- My husband has had his PEG for almost 1 year now. Since his cancer is recurring and spreading he will coninue with it-possibly permanently. It really is a lifesaver if Harold needs chemo/radiation. As Helen said-the trach heals very fast. He probably has a chest infection from it though. Neil did but it went away quickly with medication. The trach is the fastest thing to heal once it is removed. The swelling on his face will probably come and go for awhile. It also seems more evident in the morning.
How are you holding up? You are a wonderful person to be giving blood during this stressful time. It is truly the gift of life and once you know someone you love has benefitted from it-that makes it all the more important.

Sue

cg to husband, 48 Stage 1V head and neck SCC. First surgery 9/07. Radiation and several rounds of chemo followed. Mets to chest and lungs. "Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain." Went home to God on February 22, 2009.