In May 2025, members of the New Voice Club (NVC), one of Hong Kong Cancer Fund’s 22 peer support groups, embarked on a heartfelt mission to Hangzhou. Their goal was to share their experience and expertise in voice rehabilitation with local laryngectomees, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. 

The Hangzhou and Hong Kong New Voice Club Laryngectomy Speech Sharing and Exchange Meeting, part of the 2025 annual academic conference hosted by the Zhejiang Province Rehabilitation Medicine Association, was more than just an event, it was a meaningful opportunity to connect, learn, and inspire hope. 

The Impact of Laryngeal Cancer 

Laryngeal cancer is a life-altering condition. For those with advanced stages, a total laryngectomy, which is a surgical removal of the voice box, can be curative, but it comes with immense physical and emotional challenges. Suddenly losing the ability to speak affects not only communication but also self-image, independence, and connection with loved ones. Many also live with a permanent stoma (breathing hole) in their neck, which requires daily care and adjustment. 

Voice rehabilitation is a crucial step toward reclaiming confidence and connection. The NVC team, consisting of 20 dedicated members, including ENT specialists, speech scientists, nurses, and volunteers, travelled to Hangzhou with one mission in mind: to show that life after laryngectomy can be full of purpose and communication. 

Training with Heart and Purpose 

Over two packed days, nearly 80 local laryngectomees and caregivers participated in a wide range of activities and talks aimed at building both skills and confidence. 

From the very beginning, the energy in the room was palpable. ENT nurse Mr. Wong opened the sessions with a demonstration of stoma care, using items from a specially prepared recovery bag which includes stoma covers, shower protection, and dressing kits. Professor Ng followed with an engaging overview of the four main voice rehabilitation methods: Pneumatic Speech, Electrolaryngeal Speech, Esophageal Speech, and Tracheoesophageal Speech, while NVC volunteers demonstrated each method. 

Stretching exercises led by NVC volunteers broke the ice and kept the participants physically relaxed and emotionally engaged. In small groups, laryngectomees began learning the foundations of the four main rehabilitation methods. 

Their dedication was inspiring. One local participant, Mr. Wang, 48, a construction contractor, shared how his diagnosis left him mute and unemployed. “After returning home, I felt defeated and extremely anxious,” he said. “But after the surgery, I learned to speak again in just ten days. I practiced… practiced…practiced!” 

On Day 2, ENT doctor Dr. Lai and the ENT nurse shared educational talks on treatment options, daily lifestyle tips, and nutrition. Participants then broke into focused training groups, each matched with an NVC volunteer using their preferred voice method. The room was filled with the hum of practice, learning, and discovery, so much so that many didn’t want to stop for lunch. 

Moments of Connection and Recognition 

The program closed with heartfelt moments that brought the entire experience full circle. Every participant received a recovery bag as a token of encouragement, and caregivers were invited to join for personal photo sessions. 

A collective singing of the song “Friendship” wrapped up the two days beautifully. What began as a technical training program transformed into a celebration of resilience, community, and newfound confidence. 

Mr. Hai, 58, one of the attendees, said, “At first, I felt very hopeless. I couldn’t communicate with my family… it was very frustrating. But learning esophageal speech has helped me a lot. Now I can rejoin society and communicate with others.” 

A Lasting Legacy 

Before leaving Hangzhou, the NVC team visited the Rehabilitation Medicine Clinic and ENT surgical ward of the Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital. The event also marked the signing of a collaboration between the local ENT clinic and Hong Kong. 

Although laryngectomees in Hong Kong are decreasing in number due to earlier detection and changing habits, many areas in mainland China still see high rates due to cultural and lifestyle factors. Through trips like this, NVC not only provides training but also helps seed the beginnings of local support groups, passing on their self-help spirit. 

More Than a Trip 

This journey was about more than teaching voice techniques. It was about listening, connecting, and giving people the tools and confidence to speak for themselves again. To all our NVC volunteers, medical experts, and the resilient participants in Hangzhou, thank you for showing us the power of community and the strength in every voice!