Jennifer’s Story

I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in September 2020 at forty-four years old. After I completed radiation treatment, I found it difficult to move and use my right arm and hand due to swelling in my breast and armpit. I was very vocal to my medical team about this concern. Especially as a single mother to a (then) eight-year old boy. The recovery was very challenging both physically and emotionally. Before breast cancer, I was extremely active in both my personal and professional life. In addition to keeping up with my very active son, I played tennis, golf and swam. I also exercised regularly by taking Zumba classes and working out in local gyms. As a FL Licensed Cosmetologist, I performed body treatments, facials, and other services that required strength, dexterity, and mobility. When picking a gallon of milk for my son and dropping it due to shooting pain and heaviness in my right armpit radiating across my breast, I knew something was wrong. My wonderful oncologist, Dr. David Mann with Ascension heard my cries and referred me to physical therapy. I was then referred to a Lymphedema specialist and Occupational Therapy. My Lymphedema therapist used compression, massage, and KT taping techniques to combat the swelling. When she relocated, there was a shortage of Lymphedema specialists so she taught me the techniques; which are difficult on your own. The exercises I was doing in Occupational Therapy were triggering Lymphedema flare ups. Sadly, compression garments were not covered and I had to pay out of pocket for them, and still do. I was experiencing such discomfort, I sought out a female massage therapist and paid out of pocket to break up the fluid build up in my armpit and breast. As a single mother recovering from breast cancer surgery, radiation treatment and a lymphedema diagnosis, the financial strain was huge. Not only is there a lack of support from insurance companies regarding lymphedema, but when my therapists put a request in on my behalf for more treatment, it was denied. Aside from the insurance companies, education and support within the medical community is lacking. I should have been educated with materials and taught prevention exercises regarding lymphedema among breast cancer patients before ALND (Axillary Lymph Node Dissection) surgery and radiation treatment. Instead, I am one of the many who learn after suffering physically and financially. I am now approaching one year from my lymphedema diagnosis. All this during the Pandemic has greatly affected treatment. I took many breaks throughout the different COVID surges. Because it is such a personal treatment, I chose to distance myself and only go attend necessary medical appointments. Because Lymphedema is never cured and only managed, I will need new compression garments soon, as well as treatment. My quality of life will greatly improve if this is covered through insurance. My hope is for myself and others that this necessary coverage and assistance will soon be provided through the Lymphedema Treatment Act.