The National Association of Laryngectomee Clubs are a UK wide organisation who are here to help and support people who have had a laryngectomy.
WHAT IS AN LARYNGECTOMY?
Laryngectomy means the removal of the larynx or voice box. A laryngectomee is a person who has had this essential and life saving operation – a challenge which thousands of people have met successfully.
If you or someone you care about has been told that they require this operation then we would recommend contacting the NALC as soon as possible. They are able to offer help and support when facing up to the challenge of living with a laryngectomy.
WHO ARE NALC?
The formation of a National Association of Laryngectomee Clubs (NALC) arose out of a meeting on 12 May 1975, at Charing Cross Hospital, London, where a number of laryngectomee patients from three London clubs met together, with the knowledge and support of clubs in Birmingham, Bristol and Nottingham. The proposed Association would be responsible for looking after the interests of all laryngectomee patients.
Today, NALC has almost 100 clubs nationwide and offers a range of services to Laryngectomees and their families and carers. A major role of the clubs is to provide the sort of non-medical help and information that can only come from the experience of living with a laryngectomy.
The Association endeavours to publicise, by all means, the problems of the laryngectomee and to encourage understanding by the general public.
OTHER RESOURCES ON NALC SITE
There are lots of resources available on the NALC site and we would advise having a look round to see what they offer and how they can help people who have to face the challenge of a laryngectomy.
NALC have a number of publications about living with a laryngectomy , there is also information for professionals eg social workers, ENT nurses and others to help increase their awareness and sensitivity.
NALC also provide emergency items , for example Medical Alert style credit cards/bracelets explaining how to perform emergency procedures on a person who has had a laryngectomy.
If you or someone you love has been told that a laryngectomy is required it is important to know that you are not alone. The NALC can offer help and support every step of the way along the treatment journey and living beyond treatment.
