Hi Rubyann:

I feel so bad that you are going thru so much before your treatments start. It does seem like a never ending line of doctor appointments but it will fall into a routine once your treatments begin.

I think what you have described is a picc line. Im not familiar with that. I have a port and a peg tube. The port I almost said no to, I think just because I was given a choice. In the end Im so glad I have it. I was knocked out for the surgery and they did both the port and peg tube at the same time. Your doctor would probably do it the same if you get a port and peg tube placed. I was sore for about 2 days then just a little uncomfortable from time to time. The port was very helpful because it helped me to avoid being stuck with needles so many times. Once its accessed, then the nurses can do hydration, chemo, different meds and take blood all with only one stick. There is even a numbing spray they can use if you are scared of the stick like I was, you just need to tell the nurse.

Have you considered trying to get a second opinion? Even if the doctors are 48 miles away, there must be somewhere else to try for a second opinion. How about anyplace near a relatives? Im located 45 minutes from where I was treated, it was worth the commute as Im still here to talk about it.


Its good to see you are starting to ask questions and are taking a more assertive role in your care. Keep asking questions, there is so much help on here that you will be a very informed patient. You will know when the doctor or nurses tell you something that isnt right. Try not to worry, it wont help you, it will only make you a nervous wreck.