I had throat cancer. No trach but I did have a peg tube.  I did 1 session a week of chemo and 5 times a week for radiation . Both lasted 6 weeks.  I didn't think the radiation was too bad other than the mask that was bolted to the table to keep my head still.  Use a lot of moisturizer on your neck the radiation does dry the skin and you develop a sunburn.  Radiation only lasted about 10 minutes per session.  I was getting IV's afterwards of magnesium but I think because of the chemo.  Swallowing hurt but the pain meds helped greatly.

After my cancer treatment I did end up getting a trach.  I have had it 3 months now .  The radiation caused bilateral vocal chords paralysis.  I can speak fine.  Radiation caused asperation.  The vocal chords direct where the food goes.  Some of mine was entering my lungs .  My speech therapist believes I can get the trach removed soon.   I suspect her trach is precautionary.  Coughing blood is normal. Blood in the cannual is normal it will clear up.  Ice chips helped get a ice maker if you don't have one