Hi Anita. I think this is the first we've met, thank you for the information and advice.

I don't plan on having a Port (PIK, Hickman, or the more common recently, Portocath.)

I asked the Oncologist about this, and he said he doesn't routinely put them in...(which adds weight to his PEG suggestion).

I am only getting (planned anyway) 3 infusions of Cisplatinum, so the Doc thinks they can just do it IV...which is also a good argument for the PEG since my veins may collapse half way through, and need to be hydrated.

So, I guess I'll have the PEG (G-Tube) on Monday, and hope for the best.

Glenn, my fealings don't get hurt easily, so there's no need for Brian to close this thread. I find the dialogue fascinating....and deeply appreciate the feedback.

Mark, I agree with your points, about the diversity of opinions, and the importance of "wandering" to give the fabric of these forums a real-life feel.

Marica, I think you are new to me too :-)

This PEG Tube thing sure brings people out of the woodwork If I'd known that I'd have done this weeks ago.

Sounds like Pete is doing great! I hope to chat with you more.

Barb, where did you read this about chlorine and cancer? really? I'd love to hear more about this. I've been soaking in the hot tub under the moon and stars almost every evening

Maybe it's the general infection, bacteria concern, especially for the immuno-suppressed due to treatments...

Amy, there are some "rules" when you first sign up to the forum.

[quote] Remember that this is hopefully a place for the positive exchange of ideas, not a place to verbally trash someone else. Although you may wish to vent your frustrations, and that certainly takes place in an environment as emotional as a cancer forum, please keep personal attacks out of the messages. If you wish to exchange specific information that includes doctors names, phone numbers, (perhaps to talk to each other on the phone), and similar information, please do it by email between yourselves rather than posting it on the boards. These boards are as private as any messaging boards, and the words you post here will stay here. But while we monitor what is discussed for appropriateness, we cannot control who calls you if you post your phone number. Remember that advice given by someone other than your own doctor should never take precedent over the recommendations of your own care givers, and that the opinions expressed here are those of the individuals posting them, and do not necessarily reflect the ideas of the Oral Cancer Foundation. Of course all of this seems obvious, but we have to state it for the record. Welcome to our community.
[/quote]In other words, just about anything you think to say is pretty much fine.

Also, Amy, "thread" means topic basically.

Karen, good to meet you too, but I am sorry to hear Jerry is in the hospital. It's a lesson for me, at his expense to use the PEG. Thank you both for it.

I hope he recovers swiftly!