Hi Stongue

I had my parotid gland and lymphs in my neck removed and radiotherapy 10 years ago. My facial nerve was damaged causing me to dribble and not speak properly and my throat was damaged with radiation making it difficult to swallow even water. I had sessions with a speech therapist who gave me lots of exercises to do. These included singing scales  Do Ray Me Fa so la ti while stretching lips as much as possible  I practiced this while driving and at traffic lights. Then forceful swallow, whereby you take a sip of water and holding your tongue between your teeth you swallow in an exaggerated fashion the further forward you can get your tongue  the better you are doing. Neck exercises where you sit forward in a chair with a straight back and turn your head as far left as possible then hold and try to turn it a little more. Do same with right up and down. Also opening your mouth as far as it will go 10 times per session plus pronouncing A E I O U making your lips stretch as far as possible.

You should have been given similar exercises to do at home from day 1.  It would not hurt to try do these now. I still have a bit of facial paralysis and suffer the occasional dribble but for the most part Im fine. Maybe ask your GP if you can be referred to someone who can help you get to the point where you feel self confident enough to go out and socialise.

Cats are great but nice to see your friends from time to time.

Ed