Glenn Deir, a retired journalist residing in St. John’s, shared his experience as a former heavy consumer of Boost, a meal replacement beverage, for five months. Following throat surgery in July to remove cancerous tonsil and tongue tissue, he relied on Boost and pureed food for sustenance, resulting in a significant weight loss of 15 pounds.
Despite multiple swallow tests showing difficulty in safe swallowing due to throat muscle issues, Deir persevered through radiation treatment and chemotherapy at St. Clare’s Hospital. His recovery journey included surrendering his moose hunting plans and engaging in intensive swallow therapy to regain his ability to consume solid foods.
After months of treatment, Deir’s swallowing improved, allowing him to enjoy a variety of soft foods and embark on intensive swallow therapy sessions. Despite challenges such as reduced saliva production and occasional coughing, he remains optimistic about his progress and looks forward to a more diverse culinary experience, even if he may be the last one finishing his Christmas dinner.