Nurses bring comfort to patients with handmade port pillows

At HCA HealthONE Aurora, nurses Debbie Lindesmith and Julie Chang are going the extra mile to ensure their patients’ comfort beyond the hospital walls. While caring for interventional radiology patients, they noticed a common concern—those with newly placed ports often experienced pain and discomfort from seatbelts rubbing against the sensitive site during car rides to and from their appointments. Determined to make a difference, Debbie and Julie took it upon themselves to find a simple yet meaningful solution.

With compassion and creativity, the two nurses began designing and sewing port pillows—small, cushioned pads that attach to a patient’s seatbelt to provide a buffer and ease irritation. Their thoughtful innovation quickly gained traction, and soon, members of the interventional radiology team joined the effort. Together, they began cutting fabric, assembling pillow kits, and ensuring that each one met the needs of their patients. Patients like Mr. Michael Fox*, who received his personal port pillow in March 2025.

What started as a small act of kindness has grown into a heartfelt initiative, bringing comfort and support to those undergoing treatment. Each port pillow kit even includes a special poem, reminding patients that they are cared for every step of the way. Thanks to Debbie, Julie, and their dedicated team, a simple car ride is now a little more comfortable for those on the road to recovery.

Port Pillow Poem

I'm a little port pillow, small and short.

I hook onto your seatbelt to help protect your port.

I'm here to help ease the pain of the unwelcomed trial,

And I hope in some small way, this will make you smile.