Darla wrote: << With regard to the port. How does that work? Would it stay in
for the entire chemo therapy? Where is it located. Does it interfer
with regular living. >>

There are different types.  Most seem to have one surgically implanted below
their collar bone on one side.  They are kept in throughout chemo and sometimes
afterwards as well.  Care requires having them flused routinely, generally by a
nurse.  Many are glad that they have them.  Some report difficulties, although
I don't think that is the norm.  Some have reported healing-related
difficulties after they were implanted and/or removed--again I don't think that
is the norm.  I have also seen one that was external on someone's leg.
External ones can also be placed on one's arm.  
I did chemo without a port.  It wasn't offered, although I learned I could have
had one if I asked.  I  would have if I had had any difficulty.  I didn't have
a problem with the chemo, although my veins on that side are not that great
anymore.  I had 8 treatments of hard chemo along with a year of Herceptin.  I
now get Zometa every 3 mos. without any difficulty.  Nurses seem to have no
problem finding veins for injections.  However, the lab techs seem to have
difficulty when taking blood, although usually can find a good vein.
One is still stuck with the port.  I have heard that that can be uncomfortable,
although they generally use a numbing cream first.  I didn't find the IV
insertions to be  painful, for the most part.  They usually got it in the first
time, although once in a while it didn't work the first time.
Ports are definately recommended for certain types of chemo and some centers
prefer the patient to have them, particulary if the chemo is not going to be
administered by an R.N.  I believe they are the only ones allowed to start IV's
(at least in the states) but am not certain of that.
I am guessing that some surgeons prefer some types over others.  I don't know
if there is any difference re type in terms of insurance coverage
Anyway, best of luck and hope all goes smoothly with minimal discomfort.

The port is a semi-permanent implant below your right
collarbone.  It's especially useful if you have "bad veins"
for blood draws and chemo infusions.  If nurses and techs
have trouble getting a needle in your veins you should
consider a port.

My wife is on her second port.  (More about that in a
second.)  She absolutely loves them and hopes this one lasts
longer than the first.

The drawback is they can become infected if not treated
properly.  Generally don't let anyone inexperienced use your
port for the first six months.  Pay close attention to the
procedure so you'll know if someone is about to miss a step.
Be sure the area is brushed with betadine after they take
the needle out.  Force someone to explain the procedure to
you and take notes while they're doing it.  Be sure you
understand the name of the special needle that must be used
with it. - Tony

Darla,

I think you are using the term "grade IV" when you mean Stage IV. There
is a big difference. There are Stages I thru IV which is based on your
pathology report, and other tests/scans to see if the cancer has
traveled beyond the breast or lymph nodes.. The Grades are 1 thru 3 and
are also based on pathological findings relating to DNA, how fast the
cells are dividing, and other findings by the pathology lab.

Stage IV is when the cancer has metastasized to other parts of the body
and a cure is no longer possible.

Kathie

Darla, be sure to let us know how things are going.  Best
wishes on the surgery.  Incidentally, the docs may have told
you it's an outpatient procedure.  My wife would not have
wanted to drive herself home.  She also didn't want to move
much for about 24 hours.  If you're living alone try to
persuade a friend to move in with you for a day or so. -
Tony

Which trial is it?

Janet is on BCIRG006

Darla,

Wishing you good vibes for your chemo on Monday.

Good Luck,

Take care,

Shaz x