I was diagosed with Lymphedema at the age of 57. But I had left leg swelling since I was 28 years old. It never was treated. I had a hysterectomy, due to a cyst rupturing and have a lot of scar tissue in the abdomen. But in 2007, I had leuckocytoclasticvasculitis caused from prescribed medications. This caused the lymphedema to affect the right leg as well, and the left leg had even gotten worse. My legs became more deformed, painful, and prone to infections. I lost my teaching position because walking became impossible to do. Despite everything I tried, my legs continually had gotten worse.
Until hope was given to me by my new internal medicine doctor. She asked me if my lymphedema was ever addressed; my response to her was I didn’t know it could be?
Since I’ve started treatment, my legs are feeling better, the constant pain has minimalized, they actually look “normal”. And this is just 2 months into the treatment. The constant knee pain from my osteoarthritis has even lessened, because of the loss of the fluid and general heaviness I experience in my legs. This has given my knees a much needed reprieve.
I would send a photo, but my legs are so deformed it is embarrassing. However if one is needed to further the cause I would most definately send one.
Being able to walk, and not worry so much about being cut and getting a major infection, and a long hospital stay is making this treatment bearable. It’s not a “walk in the park”, but the light at the end of the tunnel makes me think this is what a part of heaven must be like!
The passage of this act would help so many people, and give back the dignity and well being that is essential to all people.
