Hi all

Two weeks ago I had surgery to implant a port-a-cath so I can continue with Tysabri. My veins, after four years on Ty, were giving up, and pretty wasted and it was taking at least three-to-five attempts to insert a cannula for the Ty. I won't say it was the most pleasant thing in the world (I had a post-surgical bleed and lots of bruising) - but compared to brain surgery (which I have had) it was pretty easy. It does feel kinda hinky having this huge lump (HUGE is how it feels, more than how it looks) in my chest.

I will be testing it on the 26th to see how it works - cross your fingers for me, but I am sure it will be much better.

I'm usually around the PN forum but saw your post and wanted to tell you good luck !

I wish I had done a port for my chemo last year. They said 3 treatments and at the 3rd treatment he said he was adding 3 more.

I don't know much about MS but I do know about needles and veins

I'm sure you'll like the port much better than having them stick you so many times. Good to give your veins a rest.

Take care.

Debi from Georgia

Crossing fingers and saying prayers that the cath works well for you and that you heal up quickly, Lynn. Sorry that it was a tough go to have it put in.
Take care of yourself .

With love, Erika

Alright Lyn, good for you. Hope it works well for you.

You will eventually learn to love it. It is so much more convenient and hopefully they will also draw blood from it!

Good luck, I hope it works great for you! One thing I was blessed with is huge veins. They look horrendous on my hands but nurses love them.

I hope this will make your infusions much easier.

Good morning.....I have great, big veins in my arms too.....and you're right....I tell the nurses to pick either arm and they are so excited. They said my veins would shrink after chemo but mine didn't

Have a good and pain free day.

Debi from Georgia

Hope this is just the answer for you to be able to continue the Ty infusions - happy healing!

Thanks guys

My veins used to be fabulous - it's only in the cooler weather and the last few months that they have gone on strike. Ironically, they look great right now - but appearances can be deceptive - most of them are scarred, so the cannula can't advance when they get it in.

xxx

gosh lynn, i hope this all goes well for you. the access should be much better.
how is the T working for you?