This year, our goal has been to build a stronger lymphedema community across British Columbia. We often think of our work as being like a drop of water falling into a pond—each person we educate, each healthcare professional we reach, and each new partnership we build creates a ripple effect that spreads knowledge farther across the province.

The more people who understand the lymphatic system and recognize the signs of lymphedema, the more likely individuals are to receive an earlier diagnosis and treatment before the disease progresses. Every conversation, presentation, and partnership helps move us closer to that goal.

Last year, we created an educational video introducing the basics of lymphedema and sharing the personal stories of two individuals living with the condition. The video continues to be an important resource for patients, families, healthcare professionals, and the public, helping people understand that lymphedema is a lifelong condition that can be successfully managed when identified early.

Over the past year, we have continued to strengthen partnerships throughout British Columbia to ensure lymphatic diseases are included in broader healthcare conversations.

One exciting milestone was partnering with LifestyleRx, making lymphedema one of the conditions supported through this MSP-funded lifestyle medicine program. This partnership helps connect people living with lymphedema to evidence-based education and healthy lifestyle strategies that can improve their overall health and quality of life.

We have also continued to work closely with BC Cancer to increase awareness among healthcare professionals. In November 2025, we participated in the BC Cancer Summit, sharing information about the importance of recognizing and managing cancer-related lymphedema. Building on that relationship, on May 8, 2026, we partnered with BC Cancer to host a dedicated Lymphedema Education Day for healthcare professionals, bringing together experts to improve knowledge, encourage earlier recognition, and promote best practices in treatment.

Recognizing the close connection between chronic swelling and wound healing, we also attended the WCET–NSWOC Wound Care Conference in Vancouver in April. By sharing our resources with wound care professionals, they in turn can share with their patients that we are available for support when needed.

These partnerships are helping create a network of healthcare professionals, organizations, and community members who understand the importance of lymphatic health. Each connection strengthens our ability to educate, advocate, and support people living with lymphedema throughout British Columbia.

This is only the beginning. As our community continues to grow, so does our ability to ensure that no one in British Columbia has to face lymphedema alone. Together, we are creating lasting change—one partnership, one healthcare professional, and one patient at a time.