I didn't have a port but had the PEG. It was a pain to deal with but a lifesafer nonetheless. The nurses weren't kidding when they told me that about 3 weeks into radiation I would not be able to swallow a sip of water. That condition lasted until about the second week post Tx.

The worst part just to be up front about it was removal of the PEG. The nurses also were not kidding when they had told me earlier that "we just grab the end of it with you lying on the table and jerk it out". I thought they were having fun with me when I had asked but no, I found out they were serious. That's exactly how it was removed. Nurse said to hold on as it will be painful for 3 to 4 minutes. That time she lied as I saw stars for at least 5 to 6 minutes but then the pain subsided quickly. Surely there has to be a better way to do it this day and age!

Bill D.