However, if you would like to read some more general information now, you may find these suggestions helpful.

Cancer of the larynx information centre
This area of the Cancerbackup website covers cancer of the larynx, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, follow-up, and feelings.

The National Association of Laryngectomee Clubs (NALC)
A national charity which produces information for laryngectomy patients. Contact NALC for their publications list, or for a copy of any of the publications listed below at:

152 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 9TR
Tel: 020 7730 8585, fax: 020 7730 8584

Booklets and leaflets which are free. Videos are available for £5-£10 each, including package and postage (UK only. If overseas, contact NALC). Titles include:

Information for laryngectomy patients
A brief introduction to benefits entitlement and products available to patients. It includes a list of publications and useful addresses.

Handbook for laryngectomy patients
Sections include: diagnosis of cancer; operation; speech therapy; stoma care; and returning to normal life. Information on clubs and resources. It is available on audio cassette (free).

Talking it through
A video explaining laryngectomy, and living with it afterwards. £10.00 including postage and packing.

Living with a laryngectomy
A set of four leaflets covering: first reactions; adjusting to a new way of communicating; long term healing problems; and coping with mood changes.

Cancer Index (guide to internet resources for cancer)
You can use this to find worldwide sites on cancer of the larynx.

Larynx or laryngeal cancer (cancer of the voice box)
CancerHelp (Cancer Research UK) information about cancer of the larynx and its treatment.

Laryngectomy Life
This is a link to a page on a website created and run by a laryngectomee. The page is about the laryngectomy operation. It includes a link to a series of photos showing someone going through the first two weeks of recovery in hospital.

Man from Mars
This is a BBC 'Video Nation' short film made by Bert Culling, from Tyneside. He speaks about his personal experience of communicating with a voice box. There is a second film about Bert and his cat. You may find that you need to download realplayer software to view the films.

WebWhispers
The website of an organisation for laryngectomees. It is based in the USA. It hosts two discussion groups and has practical information a range of subjects, including recipes for making tasty, soft foods.

For carers

The charity Cancerbackup produces a useful series of leaflets:

Caring for someone with advanced cancer

Cancer and older people

If you are looking after someone who has fatigue

Palliative care

Cruse Bereavement Care
The largest bereavement charity in the UK. It offers help to people trying to cope with death, whatever their circumstances. They have a range of free factsheets, as well as books of various cost.
Helpline: 0870 167 1677
Free helpline for young people (12-17 years old): 0808 808 1677
Email: helpline@crusebereavementcare.org.uk