Port-a-who????

Hey Guys! It has been such an amazing week! I have to say a huge thank you to every single person who read, retweeted and shared my 'Open Letter to Cystic Fibrosis'. I was and still am so overwhelmed from the response but I am so glad I shared how I truly feel about Cystic Fibrosis. I am also so happy to announce that my CRP is below 5, my Lung Function is 76% and my Liver Function is 72 - so things are constantly improving!

So you're probably wondering what on earth is the title about? Well, I am going to tell you! Next week Friday, I am going in to hospital for a surgical procedure in order to get a 'Port-a-cath'. If you are wondering what a port-a-cath is; it is an implanted venous access device in order to make treatments easier for patients.

This is a diagram demonstrating where the two types of IV Access are placed within the body. I will be getting a P.A.S.Port.

I have been contemplating the idea of getting a more permanent route of IV Access. I thought that if I got a Port-A-Cath, Cystic Fibrosis had won and it was the 'beginning of the end' if that makes sense. I thought that I would be constantly on IV treatments, constantly unwell, constantly unhappy and constantly in hospital. But after a conversation with fellow CFers and my CF team, I realised that it wouldn't be disabling me but enabling me and helping me live a normal every day life whilst on IVs. Alongside the fact that I have absolutely shocking veins, I realised that I would not be turning into a 'dependent patient' but I would be further turning into an 'independent person'.

The procedure is going to be done under local anaesthetic, as the effects are nowhere near as harsh on the chest as general anaesthetic. I will be getting a P.A.S. Port which is inserted in the upper arm. I chose to have a P.A.S Port as they are often more discreet and this is the more fattier area of my body haha! After my procedure, my CF team are going to decide if I can come off my IVS, and possibly start an oral antifungal as a more long term resolution to help combat my APBA. ( I don't think my stomach can handle any more IVS HAHAHA).

I am incredibly nervous but I am extremely looking forward to continue living and enjoying life and appreciating each day as it comes. So, if anybody is considering a more permanent route of IV Access, please consider it or feel free to give me a message!

I would also love to know if there are specific subjects that you would like me to discuss?

Thank you as always,

Love Nu xxx