Lucy’s Story

I have lymphedema due to removal of many lymph nodes affected by melanoma. These nodes are all in my left chest area including one in my breast. The loss of these nodes has resulted in swelling of my left arm and breast to the point where my left breast cup size went from AB to a D size. My left hand swelled as well as my arm and I was told to purchase compression garments to reduce and then control the swelling. Medicare will not pay for these garments. Last year alone, we had 9,000 miles of necessary travel due to the problems from the melanoma and resulting lymphedema. I do not expect any help with the cost of mileage, but I choose to include that so that you will understand that this is not a short-term problem. This year, I have had to pay over $2,000 for the necessary garments. At this point I can afford it, but there are many people who simply cannot and have to live with the swelling and problems from that. I know that I will have to replace these garments at least every two years and do not know if I will continue to be able to afford it.  I have to have help with my housework as I tire easily and my arm aches with sweeping, vacuuming, etc. My husband does this now, but he has a heart problem and should not be doing it. I do believe that lymphedema patients should have the assurance of Medicare paying for the necessary garments in order to live as normal a life as possible.  Thank you.