Glenn Deir, a retired journalist residing in St. John’s, shares his journey of being heavily reliant on Boost, a meal replacement drink, for five months due to throat surgery that removed cancerous tissues from his throat in July. Post-surgery, he could only consume Boost and pureed food, resulting in a noticeable weight loss of 15 pounds.
Despite multiple swallow tests indicating difficulty in safely ingesting solid food, Deir remained determined. He underwent radiation treatment and chemotherapy, which led to canceling a moose hunting trip due to health concerns. His radiation oncologist supported this decision by providing a compassionate letter to the wildlife department, emphasizing Deir’s need for recovery and care.
During his cancer treatment, Deir endured radiation sessions twice daily, humorously imagining scenarios where his successful moose hunt would benefit his doctor. Amidst these challenges, he maintained a positive attitude, diligently performing prescribed exercises and preparing for subsequent swallow tests.
By late November, Deir’s efforts paid off as his swallowing ability improved, allowing him to qualify for intensive swallow therapy. With guidance from speech language pathologists, he gradually reintroduced solid foods into his diet, marking a significant milestone after months of liquid nutrition. Despite ongoing struggles with reduced saliva production and occasional coughing, Deir remains optimistic about his culinary prospects and recovery journey.
Deir’s inspiring story reflects resilience and determination in overcoming obstacles post-cancer treatment. His experience serves as a beacon of hope for those facing similar challenges and underscores the importance of perseverance and support during recovery.
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