You are not the first. Usually you must break the plastic handle to remove it and then you can access the screw and have leverage to hold the brass stem with pliers while you try removing the screw. Caution, do not try to bend the handle to break it off or you will break the brass facet stem. Also, there are two styles of handles: one has a short innercone,the other has a longer inner cone. You need to know this before you purchase a replacement. Goodluck< Macgivor