When my husband was trached following his surgery the nurses used a dry erase board to communicate with him. That way you can use it over and over again. My husband endured the treatments without a complaint also. He never showed any fear or gave up hope. Although this was his personality I often wanted him to open up about how he really felt but he never did-it was just his way. Even of he could communicate easily with you he probably wouldn't. Just hang in there and be with him. That's the most important thing.

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.