Coolbawn man writes his story of recovery
Frank Moran of Coolbawn recently celebrated his 90th birthday at a special dinner with his family in The Derg Inn in Terryglass.
The conversation flowed freely as the former building contractor and joint Shannon Rovers President spent a wonderful evening surrounded by his children and grandchildren.
Less than two years ago however, Frank was diagnosed with cancer of the voice box, leading to its removal in June of 2023.
The procedure, known as a laryngectomy, is a surgery to remove part or all of the larynx.
Those who undergo this treatment must learn new ways to breathe, speak and swallow. Frank has now decided to put pen to paper to document his recent medical journey.
In his own words, he says: “It’s not so that people will have sympathy for me, but so I can help others who are faced with a similar situation.”
OTHER BOOKS
Following a number of local history publications, including documenting the stories of the local post offices and what he believed to be his final offering, ‘Where the Lark Once Sang’ in 2018, Frank thought his writing days were over.
But following his surgery in Galway University Hospital in May 2023 his doctor, Ms Orla Young, mentioned that maybe Frank would document his procedure, his recovery and his subsequent adaptation to his new way of life. The result is a 30-page booklet entitled ‘Laryngectomy – On the Road to Recovery’.
Written in an easy-to-read informal style, the booklet deals with Frank’s journey from the onset of symptoms in 2018, through a number of tests and diagnoses, radiation therapy and ultimately “lifesaving surgery”.
It details, in particular, the process of adapting to life after the procedure where Frank now speaks through the aid of a laryngectomy stoma.
This requires adapting to a new way of breathing while speaking and pressing a button on the device to do so.
Frank is now back living his normal life, going to hurling matches, history talks and fully engaging with anyone he meets, thanks to the use of the device.
MESSAGE OF HOPE
The book, which is available directly from Frank, is a message of hope to anyone facing similar treatment. There is no charge, but Frank is inviting recipients to make a donation, if desired, to Cancer Care West.
Donations may be made directly to Frank or online by going to www.cancercarewest/donate
To order a copy you may contact Frank on 087 2463811.