Life after Tongue cancer

My brother (71) had tongue cancer surgery on 27/7/21 at a London hospital. He had tongue reconstruction. He still has feeding tube and trachea. (stoma) He was in hospital 4 months. They could not remove stoma . He also had a heart attack and had stents put in. A few weeks ago he was also diagnosed with Bells Palsy.

He went home with 24 hour care, but after a week was back in hospital (local) as swelling was not going down.

He has lost a lot of weight and is weak

Any advice on how to help him get stronger and learn to talk again?

  • Hi Andrea1918,

    Welcome to Cancer Chat. I'm sorry to hear of everything that's been happening with your brother - this sounds like a lot to deal with and I hope you're getting on OK and that he is doing as well as can be.

    Unfortunately I'm not best placed to advise on this but do talk things through with his doctor/specialist when you can, and if you haven't already, regarding any ways to boost recovery and strength. You may also wish to talk things through with one of our nurses (although please note they are nurses with cancer knowledge rather than relating to the Bell's Palsy) and if so you can reach them on 0808 800 4040 - Monday-Friday, 9-5.

    Wishing you all the best,

    Ben
    Cancer Chat Moderator