Chemo Port Protector
This is a chemotherapy port protector specifically designed for a Bard Access Systems PowerPort Implantable Port.
I have a family member who is a sheriff's deputy. After being diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer, she went through treatment. She kicked cancer's ass and now wants to resume active duty. The problem is that she will be doing immunotherapy, and her doctor will not clear her for active duty because her duty vest will rub/press on her port. Additionally, if someone were to strike her on her port, that would also be problematic.
She asked if I could design something that would be thin enough to wear under her duty vest. She really just needed something that she could tape in place and would be comfortable enough to wear. Also, it would need to disperse any light blows away from the port itself. So, this weekend, along with her visit, we did a few iterations until she was happy with the result!
Note: The weatherseal I used does contain rubber, so you may need to find a different material if you have allergies or sensitive skin.
Supplies
A 3D printer
About 10 grams of PETG
About 8.5" of Auto and Marine Rubber Weatherseal
Scissors or utility knife
Printing the Protector
Download and print the Chemo Port Protector Cut. I recommend no supports at 100% infill with ironing on the top layer. If your printer has trouble with overhangs, either add support to the outer edge or expect to do some minor sanding.
I originally wanted to do the top in PETG and the bottom in TPU (with a full ring). After the articles I read about trying to print those materials together and their lack of strong adhesion, I cut the model down and decided to use a different cushion material.
I have included the original with the full ring and the cut one that I used in this project.
Adding the Padding
You will need just over 8.25" of the weatherseal. I suggested 8.5" just so you had a little extra.
Cut the weather seal, but leave the two strips connected.
Remove the white strips to reveal the adhesive.
Fold the strip in half 'hotdog style" and press it together.
Press the weather stripping into the channel in the protector so that the open adhesive edge faces toward the inside part of the protector (Sorry, I didn't get a picture of this. If requested, I can print another and do it again).
Success! Now you have a light, durable cover for a chemo port! I'm considering adding a ring of moleskin or other protectant on later. Let me know what you think!