Hi Chipo. We all understand how you’re feeling. The porta cath really will make things much easier in the long run. I used the emla numbing patches for the first few weeks after I got mine but now I don’t bother. It really doesn’t hurt much at all when they access it, just a needle prick. They will give you the patches in the chemo ward so don’t buy them.
As far as chemo goes everyone has different reactions and side effects. I’m one of the lucky ones- I’ve had hardly any side effects at all. I’ve had a couple of days where I felt a bit yuck but nothing like I was expecting. It really hasn’t effected my day to day life- I’m still chasing around after my 2 kids and life is going on as usual.
I know it’s different for everyone but I just wanted to share a positive story with you. I hope your chemo goes smoothly.