Jo’s Story

I am a Breast Cancer Survivor. 2012 I had double mastectomies, axillary lymph dissection, chemo, & radiation. I developed lymphedema of my right arm, hand, chest & back. It is a daily struggle to cope with the physical deformities & pain caused by lymphedema; Embarrassment, depression, fear of infection, difficulty performing many tasks, disfigurement, clothes, supplies. The expense, especially since I am now on Medicare, is outrageous. I procrastinate getting new compression sleeves & gloves, wearing them until they are ragged, even though compression is medically necessary to control swelling & prevent infection. We have the right to have necessary lymphedema treatment, & coverage should not continue to be denied. Coverage would prevent complications, increase compliance & quality of life, & save health costs.