Hi Slim, I'm new here also, sadly not very new to the disease, tho. It's simply amazing how when one day not that long ago, most of us had not even heard of head and neck cancer, let alone knew anything about it. Thank goodness for the internet, we've been able to learn as we went through it, especially with the help from others that had gone before us. I'm one that believes in the PEG, not that I was given a choice in the matter but I would have probably starved to death without it. About the 3rd week into treatment, I could not stand to eat or drink anything. I even detested the taste of water. I took nothing by mouth for about two months. In doing that, I did have to learn to swallow again but I managed it although things still get stuck if I'm not very careful. The two pieces of advice I have to someone getting a PEG is to ask you to try to drink something every day, no matter how bad it tastes or feels, it'll really help in the long run. Also, after the tube is inserted, there is some pain, especially when lying down. Holding a pillow to your stomach while doing it is alot more painless.
I'm so sorry to hear about your mother. I lost my mom in '94 to gall bladder cancer. Although the grief has eased, I still get upset when I see a mother and daughter out shopping or having luch together. I really miss her. My prayers are with you, Carol