Glenn Deir, a retired journalist residing in St. John’s, shares his experience as a non-drinker who relied on six packs of Boost, a meal replacement drink, for survival during a challenging period. Following throat surgery to remove cancerous tissues in mid-July, he faced difficulties with solid foods and underwent numerous swallow tests to assess his ability to safely consume nourishment. Despite losing weight and missing out on a moose hunting trip due to health concerns, Deir remained resilient throughout radiation and chemotherapy treatments.
The article delves into the struggles Deir faced during treatment, including swallowing exercises, risks of mishaps even with liquids, and the importance of intensive swallow therapy to aid in his recovery. After months of perseverance, he eventually transitioned from pureed foods to solid options like bananas and soft meals, though challenges persist due to reduced saliva production post-radiation. Despite occasional coughing spells and slower eating pace, Deir remains optimistic and determined to reclaim a semblance of normalcy in his culinary experiences.