I highly recommend the port. My Mom just got one last month- at first she didn't want to do it but now she's so glad she did. It just makes the whole process so much easier. It was a quick procedure and she really didn't have any pain afterward. Just make sure they give you EMLA cream to put on it before treatment. The EMLA numbs the skin so he won't feel the poke.Aside from feeling weak ( a lot ), this week has been ok. We see the oncologist Friday and will have labs done then. Also an appointment with a surgeon Friday to see about getting a port before the next round of treatment. From what I've read, it may take another week or two for Dave to "bottom out", for his platelets and RBC to reach their (hopefully) lowest level before they start to build back up.
I think most IV chemo's are the same in that days 10-14 are when their numbers are at their lowest. But, for my Mom anyway, she doesn't really notice it. She may be a little more tired but she feels most of the side effects right after treatment. The main thing about that time period is to be even more vigilant about germs because it's when the immune system is at it's weakest.
Still sending you and Dave positive vibes!!!!!!