Laryngectomy is the removal of the larynx and separation of the airway from the mouth, nose, and esophagus. The laryngectomee breathes through an opening in the neck, a stoma. It is done in cases of laryngeal cancer. However, many laryngeal cancer cases are now treated only with radiation and chemotherapy or other laser procedures, and laryngectomy is performed when those treatments fail to conserve the larynx.

Prayer for a Laryngectomee

O Heavenly Father, I thank you for your sweet gift of speech, the second
such gift to me during my lifetime and for your help through so many others
during my recent and terrible silence. Never let me forget the anguish nor the
despair suffered by me while speechless, for only in remembering can I tenderly assist those who unfortunately come after me. Teach me to do so with a great understanding and a gentle compassion, a deep humility and with much patience.

Amen