Mon, December 2, 2024
Sun, December 1, 2024
[ Sun, Dec 01st 2024 ]: Tim Hastings
A quest for better health

New technology helps people get their voices back. Marylanders are among the first to use it

The article from The Baltimore Banner discusses the case of Ava, a 26-year-old woman who was diagnosed with laryngeal cancer, a rare condition for someone her age. Ava, who worked as a bartender, initially noticed a lump in her neck, which led to her diagnosis. The cancer was treated with a combination of chemotherapy, radiation, and eventually, a total laryngectomy, which removed her voice box, leaving her unable to speak naturally. Post-surgery, Ava faced significant challenges adapting to life without a voice, impacting her social interactions and professional life. However, she has been using an electrolarynx, a device that produces sound, to communicate. The article highlights the emotional and practical struggles of living without a natural voice, the rarity of her condition, and the ongoing support from her community and medical professionals. It also touches on the broader implications of such a diagnosis, including the psychological impact and the innovative ways individuals like Ava adapt to their new circumstances.

Read the Full Baltimore Banner Article at:
[ https://www.thebaltimorebanner.com/economy/science-medicine/larynx-cancer-ava-voice-EXRFNOXH5ZARFEVDVTDTGTJTT4/ ]