I was diagnosed with lymphedema in the spring of 2005 after having had a mastectomy in 2000. In 2006, the breast cancer returned in my axilla. After radiation treatment to the affected arm, I had a full blown case of lymphedema. My right arm was two times its normal size. It was a heartbreaking situation for me.
I immediately received care for the lymphedema with intensive treatment of wrapping and manual lymph drainage therapy. Unfortunately, through the years Medicare has denied coverage for all of the wraps, bandages, sleeves, and nighttime garments necessary to reduce the swelling caused by lymphedema.
By using compression garments day and night, performing manual lymph drainage on myself each morning, and having periodic physical therapy, I can have a normal life. My affected arm is consistently 13% larger than the unaffected arm, rather than being doubled in size.
I strongly support HR 3877 so compression garments can be covered by Medicare. They work. I am living testimony.
