[TriciaK]

I only get zometa every four weeks now, no herceptin, so I go in a day or two before for a blood test and they flush the port then, once a month. I have the numbing spray used each time, but I probably don't need it because I feel almost nothing. A port is so wonderful for me after the horrors I have gone through as they tried to find veins prior to the port. I hope I never have to have it taken out! I have only one usable vein (if they can find it) that I save for the EMT's if I ever need it. In fact they are the ones who located it on the top center of my right arm. I will tolerate its use by the EMT's but once I get to the hospital I will not let the nurses use anything but the port. I'm normally very easy to get along with, but I do get absolutely adamant when it comes to drawing blood or IV's: use the port or I will get dressed and go home! (Ha!) I think most people who have a port feel it is absolutely the right thing to do, unless you have extraordinarily good & cooperative veins! They talked about putting in a pick line for me in the hospital, but my oncologist insisted on the port, and I am so glad. Hope you have good luck with one, too! Hugs, Tricia