I had 2 operations in May 2005 to remove my thyroid.  I have had radioactive treatment, and will be regularly monitored for a number of years.  Due to the surgery (and all the traumas associated with it) my voice doesn't work as it used to.  Local medics weren't concerned that I'd lost my singing voice, and this made me frustrated and upset.  Through the Internet, I found and visited Voice Connection in Sydney.  The team (Ear, Nose and Throat specialist, speech therapist and counsellor) saw no visible damage to the relevant nerves (RLN and SLN).  I've since had speech therapy with Marjorie Conroy at the Royal Hospital in Hobart.  My speaking voice is clearer and stronger, and I can now manage to sustain and sing some (very) low notes, nothing higher than a middle C. At my follow-up appointment, Voice Connection was pleased with my progress but could not say if I will ever regain my singing voice.  They said there's no need for me to visit them again.  It's now a question of waiting! 

After a very bad cough which lasted over a week, I suddenly could squeak some higher notes.  I can sing to about a middle C now with not too much strain, and with some vibrato.  I can sing some notes higher than middle C in a peculiar "falsetto" voice, but can't control those higher notes very well.  Not being able to sing makes me depressed and frustrated.  I hope my voice comes back at some point.  I'll keep you informed of my progress!

Email:  mei@meiweilim.com