The Princess of Wales has revealed intimate details about her chemotherapy treatment during a visit to the Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea, where she received her care.
In her first solo engagement of 2023, the Princess of Wales, 43, opened up about the “really tough” experience as she interacted with patients and staff.
While speaking with 45-year-old Katherine Field, who was using a cold cap during her chemotherapy to preserve her hair, Kate pointed to her own arm and chest to discuss the “port” mechanism used to deliver medication.
“I got so attached to it,” Kate shared, laughing as she recalled her hesitation when she was finally told, “you can have it taken out now.”
It is not believed that Kate used a cold cap herself.
What is a Chemotherapy Port?
A chemotherapy port, or portacath, is a small device implanted under the skin to deliver medication. It connects to a long, thin tube that runs into a vein near the heart or sometimes the arm. A special needle is used to administer medicine through the device, though the process is not painful.
The port can be felt under the skin or may appear as a small bump, but patients can continue their daily activities with the port in place, eliminating the need for repeated needle insertions during each treatment.
In contrast, a cold cap is worn during certain chemotherapy sessions to reduce blood flow to the scalp, minimizing the amount of chemotherapy medication that reaches the area and helping prevent hair loss.
