My son, need advice about implanted port (unusual post!)

[Guest guest]

Hi, my name is Sue....first of all let me say that I worked as an oncology nurse

for many years...giving remission-induction chemo, and blood transfusions and I

respect you all for the battles you fight ...

Secondly, I am turning to ya'll for advice about my son...he does not have

leukemia, but has a chromosomal duplication that makes him susceptible to

leukemia. He has chronic severe neutropenia for which he receives Neupogen

three times a week, and immunodeficiency for which he receives IVIG. He is 15,

tiny for his age, and also has Asperger's syndrome, a form of autism - he likes

being alone a lot.

Two months ago he had implanted a mediport...a Bard Slim port...for all the labs

and infusions etc...Well, he likes to hold his electric guitar several hours

each day....he's learning to play, well, let's just say he tries. Anyway, the

strap of the guitar passes right over or alongside the port.....I am worried

that it might displace the port. My son is adament about leaving him alone about

this....this is his biggest joy, but I don't want the constant pressure and

pushing to mess up the port.

Any ideas? Thoughts? Advice how to modify the strap?

I know this isn't the usual discussions ya'll probably have! But I figured the

folks in your group would have lots of experience with central

lines/ports/issues and maybe one of ya'll has an idea.

Any opinions are appreciated!.....With gratitude.....Sue in New Orleans