Mel---I would have LOVED one!
My 'maximum stickings' was 5 times--and still it didn't work, had to go back next day!
I also had veins which popped/collapsed several times and the pain was intense.
Fortunately, I'm now on monthly bloods/Zometa, all of which can be done via a 'healthy' vein in the crook of my arm
You seem to have different 'palliative/shrinking' regimes in the US. I asked my doc about this last review and he said the chemo had achieved maximum hoped-for shrinkeage, can be repeated if necessary.
At the moment am glad for a break from the incessant poking, and during it, was many a time wishing I could have a port!

Hope you get answers that are right for you and take your family-life into account

Brends x

Brenda in UK--Diagnosis 30/5/07--undifferentiated carcinoma in right jawbone and muscles. Stage 4
6/7/07--new diagnosis primary is in lung. Finished 4cycles of palliative carboplatin/gemcitabine
therapy September 07
Now dying to live!