Past Port

Kevin's implanted port was taken out today. Like chemotherapy, it doesn't quite feel "done" because he's still dealing with the healing part of it.

It was interesting to learn Kevin didn't recall seeing the port before today. Dr. Francis was very good last fall about showing one to us and walking us through the procedure step by step. I think by that time Kevin was in a daze from all that had happened so quickly.

If, like Kevin, you're curious about what's been lurking below that bump on his upper right chest, I've posted a picture of a Power Port. The triangle port was implanted below the skin of Kevin's upper right chest with the tube tunneled under the skin and up to a vein in his neck.

His surgeon knew I was curious about the removal and he let me watch as the port was taken out. It was done in the "procedure" room of his office and Kevin was awake for it.

The incision runs over the one made when the port was implanted so he won't have another scar.

Might not be something for the squeamish or those bothered by blood but I found it very interesting and watching helped me understand a little more of what Kevin has gone through.

The three of us--Kevin, myself and Dr. Francis--chatted throughout about the doctor's overseas mission work this year. He works with a group of Christian physicians to provide needed medical care across the globe. That's one of the many things we like about him.

What I like most about Dr. Francis is how comfortable and confident Kevin feels about him. That confidence level has such a positive influence on Kevin's response and recovery.

We came home to Ohio afterwards--picked up Joshua on the way. He is staying with us until the weekend.

Kevin has gone to bed with an ice pack on the incision and a dose of Tylenol for the ache. I'm certain the area will be sore for several days--after watching today I have a much clearer understanding of the bruising ache that goes with even minimal surgery.

It's been almost a year since we were suddenly thrown into what still feels like a foreign--and, for Kevin, often hostile--land. It's good to be leaving it bit by bit in the past.