Thomas Müller, Germany

Q: What can you tell me about your laryngectomy?
Thomas: I was first diagnosed with cancer of the larynx in 1981, and that completely turned my life around. I had a small surgery where parts of my larynx were removed, which affected my voice badly. In 2006, the cancer returned and I had a total laryngectomy, so today I speak using a voice prosthesis. The cancer made me realize how fragile the body really is, and I started taking better care of it. I look at life differently and meet people with joy and respect.

Q: You mentioned that you are “Embracing my new life”, can you articulate?
Thomas: Since my first cancer diagnosis in 1981, and my laryngectomy in 2006, I have kept myself busy. I started studying physical therapy to help people with their ailments and that is my part-time profession today. I have also taken on bodybuilding, cycling and after I bought my motorcycle, I founded a Ducati owner’s club. With my Ducati motorcycle, I travel the world and meet up with other Ducati enthusiasts on my spare time. There are so many places I would like to see, and hope to see soon.

I would also like to spread the word about living with a laryngectomy. Losing your voice means losing your most important means of communicating with the rest of the world, and that is huge. But, with voice prostheses, there is a way to get your voice back, so think of that as a gift and as a way to get on with your new life. Before my surgery, I was told that I would be able to speak again, but I was not sure what to expect. Speaking without vocal cords? But, it only took me ten days or so before I could talk properly with my prosthesis. And now look at me, I am working, helping others with their physical problems!

Q: How have the Provox system of products affected your quality of life?
Thomas: Having to live with such a handicap, I would like to say that research and engineering made my life worth living. First of all, the voice prosthesis is central. I used Provox2 for a few years, and was very satisfied with it. Since April 2009, I am using the new Provox Vega* and that has been great for me, because I am now able to use Provox FreeHands HME** much longer, in other words I can speak and use both my hands much better now. I need less effort to speak with Provox Vega and that makes the adhesive to which my FreeHands HME is attached, stick much longer.

As for the HME’s, I would never stop using them. Breathing directly through the stoma is very uncomfortable for me and it isn’t good for my lungs either. And, on a funnier note, the HME prevents flies from flying into my stoma when riding my motorcycle. (Thomas laughs)

* The new Provox Vega voice prosthesis, not yet available on all markets
** The Provox Freehands HME combines an HME with an easy- to-operate automatic tracheostoma valve that lets you speak without having to manually close the stoma.

Disclaimer: This story relates to how one individual has experienced the use of the product and not every person will get the same results. The opinions expressed are the personal opinions of that individual. Atos Medical AB does not suggest, imply or make any claims other than those detailed in the product manual. For further product information please see the manual or consult your physician/SLP.