I do not have cancer; I have never had cancer and yet, at thirty-two years old I live in tremendous pain and constant fear of infection.
It’s believed that my Lymphedema stemmed from a cellulitis infection in my pointer finger. My right arm swelled up one night when I was about 19, and it never went down. In the last 5 years, I have suffered recurrent cellulitis infections (approximately 12). My medical bills- hospitals, copays, prescriptions are a nightmare for someone who just graduated law school in debt. In addition, I now receive costly injections every 2 weeks that insurance does not adequately cover so it is cheaper to pay out of pocket. Not to mention, sleeves, gloves, and occasional visits to a therapist- all not covered.
I am an attorney and unable to work at my potential because of this condition. Recently, my job said it “came to their attention” that I had a health condition and forced me to ask for accommodations as to not fly every week. I was forced to decide to leave my job. In addition to all of the physical and emotional distress my lymphedema causes, I am now concerned at how I will cover expenses for my care. It worries me that I can’t work at full capacity forever.
Lymphedema affects everyone around me. It has taken away many of the things I enjoy and I do not think it should also take money from my family when these things are out of my control. I pay for insurance that doesn’t cover anything I actually need.
