Humorous cartoon of a patient with hard-to-find veins

By @Sealine · Nov 12, 2026

11 likes · 7 comments

True story. Multiple phlebotomists. Multiple sticks. Every time.

Entry in the Maximum Mayhem and Comedy theme.

About this image

This warm playful digital illustration depicts the relatable comedic experience of getting a blood draw when a patient has hard-to-locate veins. Set in a bright cozy clinic exam room, the art uses expressive cartoon character design, soft pastel tones, and silly dialogue to joke about the "difficult stick team" of nurses. The lighthearted, funny tone resonates with anyone who has had a tricky blood draw appointment.

Comments (7)

@DavidP · Nov 12, 2026
What a cool new word. Luckily mine are OK as I give a sample every 4 weeks. Really hated needles, but after 4 years I am now comfortable, no more sweats and elevated heart-rate
@CaylaCatz · Nov 12, 2026
ouch. I hate that when that happens. You did great getting that intense look the nurses get when they tap on your arm trying to find the vein
@beastxyz · Nov 12, 2026
Your veins have the white coat syndrome - they went hiding when they know they are about to get poked 😅
@Sealine · Nov 12, 2026
Used to have huge phobia. Would throw up when I was a kid, would get really lightheaded as an adult so they would lay me down. Finally got over it, except for hands. Those still freak me out.
@Sealine · Nov 12, 2026
You should have seen it when I needed a CT scan with contrast. Five sticks, 4 nurses (one called off lunch) and 'vein finder' device 😂
@Sealine · Nov 12, 2026
Swear I must have the worst veins ever. Have even been stuck and it stops flowing so they have to poke me again.
@DavidP · Nov 12, 2026
Glad you too can cope better now.