I have lymphedema as a result of my node dissection and double mastectomy. For several months after my mastectomy I did not use my right hand. Eventually, I began to do small household tasks and drive. The pain and swelling became obvious and I knew something was wrong. During a follow up apt with my surgeon he had me make an apt with the lymphedema clinic. There the occupational therapist will take measurements to confirm the diagnosis of lymphedema.

Lymphedema is a condition that cannot be cured. I will live with it for the rest of my life. I attend a lymphedema clinic 3 days a week. At the clinic they provide a therapeutic massage that manually moves the fluid towards the lymph nodes that I still have. After the massage the therapist will wrap the swollen areas. For me, these areas were my fingers, hand, forearm and biceps. The wrap stops when it touches my shoulder. My right side is my affected area so this area is the only part of my body that receives treatment.

Being wrapped, is not pleasant. My arm is covered in about 4 layers of fabric. It is difficult to move and impossible to use my right arm and hand. Life with lymphedema is different. It requires me to be conscious of my cancer side everyday. I have many limitations on the arm and hand with lymphedema.