If you feel well enough to travel during treatment and your doctor gives you the okay, a vacation is a great “time out” from all things cancer.

However there are a few things you will need to consider if you are flying or cruising and have to go through a security system.

Chemo Treatment Ports and Metal Detectors

An implanted port (chest or arm) or an under-the-skin pump may set off the metal detector, so:

• Carry an identification card for your device.
• If you do not have the ID card for your port or pump, ask your doctor for a note.
• The note needs to be on the doctor’s letterhead.
• The note needs to describe the type, purpose, and location of the device.
• Carry the ID card or note with you, to show the security personnel, if necessary.

Tissue Expanders and Metal Detector Wands

If you have a tissue expander in place because you are having breast reconstruction, you may have a magnet in the expander. The magnet is there to help your plastic surgeon find the valve for inserting saline to the expander.

A hand-held metal detector wand will usually pick up such a magnet, so:

• Ask your surgeon for a note or ID card that explains where the magnet is and why you have it
• Be sure to have the ID card or note ready to show to the security staff.

Treatment Syringes Need to go through the X-ray Machines

If you will be carrying an injectable medicine:

• Get a letter from your doctor.
• Make sure the letter states the reason for your injectable medicine
• The note will need to describe the medicine.
• Be sure to make copies of your prescriptions for these and any medicines you are bringing and carry them on you