Courtesy photo MyMichigan Health Foundation presents staff from the Alpena Cancer Center new port shirts for patients.

ALPENA – Patients receiving chemotherapy and other infusion treatments at the Alpena Cancer Center will now experience greater comfort, warmth and dignity thanks to the support of local donors to MyMichigan Health Foundation. Because of the community’s generosity, the Foundation recently supplied the Cancer Center with specialized port shirts designed to make treatment sessions easier and more comfortable for patients.

Port shirts are adaptive garments featuring discreet zippered openings that allow clinical staff to access a patient’s implanted chemo-port without requiring them to remove layers of clothing. A chemo port is a small device placed under the skin to provide reliable access to a vein for chemotherapy, blood draws and other intravenous treatments necessary for cancer treatment. Because ports are used frequently throughout a patient’s care journey, easy and efficient access to the port can truly improve a patient’s overall experience.

“These shirts may seem like a small enhancement, but for our patients, they make a tremendous difference,” said Matt Ritthaler, R.N., supervisor, Chemotherapy & Infusion Services. “Anything we can do to help patients feel more comfortable and respected during treatment is meaningful. We’re grateful to the Foundation and all of the amazing donors who are helping us provide this extra level of care.”

Traditional clothing often requires patients to adjust or remove garments during treatment, which can be uncomfortable and leave them feeling exposed. Port shirts solve this problem by allowing nurses to reach the port quickly while keeping the patient covered and warm. This simple design improvement helps reduce anxiety, streamline the treatment process and preserve a sense of dignity during what can be long and emotionally challenging appointments.

“Our donors care deeply about the well‒being of patients in our region,” said Ann Diamond, director, MyMichigan Health Foundation. “Providing port shirts is a simple but powerful way to bring comfort and dignity to people facing cancer treatment, and we are honored to help make that possible.”

By offering these garments at no cost to patients, the Alpena Cancer Center continues to ensure that their patients are provided excellent care throughout their journey.

The Alpena Cancer Center Fund at MyMichigan Health Foundation supports patients and families by raising funds for equipment, services and programs for the Cancer Center. Those interested in more information on the fund or MyMichigan Health Foundation may contact Diamond at ann.diamond@mymichigan.org or (989) 356-7738.