What a great day. Ernie has his voice back!! He thinks that he doesn't have as much volume as before but the speech pathologist reminded him that he still has a lot of swelling and that he can expect some improvement.
His only complaint--his value is purple. Evidently, they come in different colors, including clear, but this is the only one they had in stock that was the right fit. The purple color is the choice for hospitals so the valves can be quickly identified. Luckily, Ernie is secure in his manhood and is not afraid to sport flashy colors. He is supposed to cover the speaking valve with a scarf in cold weather anyway so it will not be obvious.
Now we just have to work on eating again. They did a swallowing study in the hospital and, due to all the trauma from surgery, he has a lot more swelling. This makes it difficult to get even water to go down the right pipe. So, no food or drink besides water until he gets another study in a couple of weeks. I know he is getting better because he is getting interested in food again. However, he does not want to get aspiration pneumonia so will wait until he gets the all clear from the doctors. Until then, the mic-key button will get a good workout.
that is great news-keep up the good work. prayers for both of you
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