Update on COVID-19 Survey & Sharing Your (new) Lymphedema Story!

Thank you to all those who participated in our recent survey, What is the Impact of COVID-19 on Lymphedema Patients? 

The responses made it clear that the impact this crisis is having on patients’ ability to manage their lymphedema is only beginning to be felt.

• Many patients are already seeing a worsening of their condition due loss of access to therapy, while others noted that their swelling has worsened even without a change to their care, and they attributed that to stress. 
• Due to loss of income, many said they have no idea when they will be able replace their compression garments, since their insurance does not cover them.
• Many are concerned an inability to manage their lymphedema effectively will lead to an infection or other complication requiring medical intervention, and in the process of seeking care their risk of contracting COVID-19 will be increased.
• Those who’ve experienced infections in the past and and required IV antibiotics are afraid if this happens now hospitals will not have space available to treat them.

In summary, the feedback we received confirmed our assertion that it’s more important than ever to pass the Lymphedema Treatment Act!

Over the years, we have collected nearly 700 patient stories from across the nation, and they have been very valuable in helping lawmakers understand the need for the LTA.

Now, we invite you to submit an update to your story (or share it for the first time), so that we can be sure to have the most current and compelling information to persuade your members of Congress to get the LTA signed into law. The form includes suggestions for the most important new information to include. Click HERE to begin.

Thank you for your continued support!

Heather Ferguson
Founder & Executive Director
Lymphedema Advocacy Group
LymphedemaTreatmentAct.org