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Finding Your People After Laryngectomy

Life after a laryngectomy is about much more than surgery and devices. It is also about rebuilding confidence, rediscovering your voice in a new way, and learning how to move through the world with fresh skills and support. While the journey can be challenging, one of the most powerful sources of strength and hope is often overlooked: connecting with other people who truly understand what you are going through.

In-person laryngectomy support groups, often hosted by hospitals, cancer centers, or local clubs, give survivors and families a place to learn, share, and celebrate progress together. Organizations that coordinate local “New Voice” and similar clubs help bring people into the same room who might otherwise feel very alone. Many regional groups meet regularly, welcoming people who are newly post-op, long-time survivors, and caregivers, and reminding everyone that healing is a shared experience.

Online communities extend that circle of support even further. Large, well-established laryngectomy forums and social-media groups connect people across cities, countries, and time zones. Someone who lives far from a major medical center can still find encouragement, ideas, and friendship at any hour of the day. For many people, these online spaces become a lifeline where they can ask questions, celebrate milestones, and see examples of others living full, active lives after laryngectomy.

Within these groups, conversations range from the very practical to the deeply personal, and they often have a hopeful tone. People trade tips on stoma care, showering and swimming, traveling with equipment, and handling noisy restaurants or phone calls. They also share honest stories about fear and frustration, along with moments of joy, like being understood on the phone by a grandchild or ordering independently in a cafe. This blend of real-world problem-solving and emotional encouragement makes support groups a powerful and uplifting complement to medical care.

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) can add tremendous value when they help lead or support these groups. An SLP can explain communication options in clear language, demonstrate techniques and devices, and gently correct misinformation so everyone feels more confident. They also help ensure that every voice is heard, connect members to ENTs, oncology teams, social workers, and national organizations, and highlight how far each person has come. Their presence often turns a support group into a place of both expert guidance and warm, human connection.

At their best, laryngectomy support groups create a community of love, encouragement, and shared experience. They remind every member, “You are not alone. Others have walked this path, and we are walking it with you.” For many people, joining a support group, online or in person, is just as important as choosing the right device or treatment. It is a way to rebuild confidence, reclaim identity, and discover new possibilities for life and communication after laryngectomy, surrounded by people who truly understand and care.

Laryngectomy Support Resources

International and national organizations
Online communities and social media
  • WebWhispers discussion groups: Email lists, forums, and Q&A on life after laryngectomy. https://webwhispers.org/
  • Lary’s Speakeasy: Multiple Facebook groups and a directory of laryngectomy support groups worldwide. https://larysspeakeasy.org/
  • International Association of Laryngectomees Facebook community: Support for laryngectomees, caregivers, and professionals. https://www.facebook.com/groups/335653219842829/
Where to start
  • Ask your speech-language pathologist, ENT, or oncology team if they know of a local support group.
  • Visit the IAL, WebWhispers, or National Association of Laryngectomee Clubs websites to search for groups and resources in your region.

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