With many Atos Medical events happening across so many locations, we have a planned theme so you can know what to expect over the next month. If you are particularly interested in a topic, do not hesitate to contact us and we can provide specific event information about where and when to get involved.
Winter is over and spring is just around the corner. Soon, it will be warmer – and a lot greener – outside. So maybe it’s time to start planning for spring and summer activities? On this page we focus on planning for a trip – near or far.
Since Nadine, France, had her laryngectomy, she has been visiting a number of countries, including far off destinations, such as Namibia, Vietnam and Madagascar.
”Travelling has always been important to me. I was basically working just so I could travel. I feared that the laryngectomy would put an end to it; would I ever be able to go anywhere again? But little by little, I realized that of course you can travel. Today, I don’t think much about the obstacles, I think about where I want to go.”
Nadine’s travel tips
- Start with a short trip to get used to being away from home
Don’t go alone. Go together with someone (spouse, family, friend).
- Always bring an extra voice prosthesis
Consider having your voice prosthesis changed before going on a longer trip.
- Bring products for a week (depending on the length of your trip)
I always have spare products in both my and my husband’s bag/suitcase in case a bag is lost or stolen.
- Bring an Electrolarynx
It’s reassuring to know that I can communicate even if my voice prosthesis is leaking. Remember spare batteries.
- Consider the environment you are in
Protect your airways in places with much dust or air pollution.
Download your own travel check list;
- What to pack in your hand luggage when travelling
The theme of this event is about your community of support around you. We will focus on how you and your caregiver were affected after the laryngectomy surgery and the different resources that are available to support you.
Caring can mean many things, including being a good listener, helping with personal care, providing transport or assisting with everyday chores.
Kieth and Denise had to support each other after Kieth came home from hospital to adjust to life after surgery and over come the new challenges that they faced.
“We had to work out a new routine. It’s a big learning curve but you learn to adapt together”
How to help a loved one before and after surgery
- Contact your local emergency services
Inform them that a laryngectomee is a total neck breather and that the voice box has been removed
- Find new ways to communicate before coming home from hospital
Consider using gestures, creating a speech menu, or practice lip reading
- If an Electrolarynx is being used it can take time and training from both of you
Pick a category and practice guessing what is being said
- Make the most of technology available
Download apps or programs on your loved ones phone, tablet or laptop
As always, the event will be a great networking opportunity where you can meet others with a total laryngectomy in your area. You will also meet your local product specialist who can answer questions specific to your needs.