Kristin, you mentioned something very important. Your post said your mother has massive swallowing issues per the swallow test. Without proper swallowing it would be very difficult, nearly impossible for her to sustain herself. Her healing is dependant upon nutrition.

She also has problems taking medication. Some medication is ok to go thru the tube, but some isnt. That is something to ask the doc or pharmacist if its ok to crush the pill. Time release meds are not ok to crush.

A previous experience that wasnt the best is not what you should be basing your option on. Many other people denpend on feeding tubes besides oral cancer patients. The facts are she needs proper nutrition and isnt able at this time to get it orally. Sounds like the tube is a very good option for her, even a necessity. Im not a big fan of the PEG tube either, I hated mine everyday and cursed it under my breath on many occassions.

Best of luck to you and your mother.