A recent post in a lymphedema support group asked whether lymphedema is caused by a "calf muscle pump" that isn't working properly.

The answer is no. While the calf muscles help move blood and lymph back toward the heart, they do not cause lymphedema. Lymphedema develops when the lymphatic system is damaged or doesn't develop properly, reducing its ability to transport lymph fluid. That's why lymphedema can affect not only the legs, but also the arms, head and neck, trunk, and genital area.

Living with a chronic condition that has no cure is difficult. Compression garments are expensive, treatment can be hard to access, and everyone hopes the next social media post will reveal the answer we've all been waiting for.

Unfortunately, social media has become the modern-day "Wild West" for health information. Every week there seems to be a new herb, gadget, massage technique, or exercise claiming to cure lymphedema. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

The good news is that we do know what works. Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)—which includes compression therapy, exercise, skin care, self-management, and when appropriate, Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)—remains the internationally recognized standard of care for managing lymphedema. While there is currently no cure, these treatments can significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

One word of caution about MLD: it has become increasingly popular and is now offered in many settings. However, not everyone providing lymphatic massage has specialized training in treating lymphedema. If you have lymphedema, look for a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) or a healthcare professional who has completed comprehensive training in Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). They have the knowledge and experience to assess and manage this complex condition safely and effectively.

When you're looking for trustworthy information, rely on reputable organizations such as the BC Lymphedema Association, the Canadian Lymphedema Framework, and the Lymphatic Education & Research Network. Jean LaMantia's books on nutrition and lymphedema are also excellent evidence-informed resources.

There may not yet be a cure, but there is hope. With accurate information, appropriate treatment, and support, people living with lymphedema can lead healthy, active, and fulfilling lives.

For people living with lymphedema, healthy skin is an important part of managing the condition. Lymphedema can make the skin more vulnerable to dryness, cracking and infection, including cellulitis. A few simple skincare habits can help protect the skin and keep it comfortable.

Moisturize Every Day — but Check the pH

Keeping skin well moisturized helps prevent dryness and small cracks that can provide an entry point for bacteria. Look for a gentle, fragrance-free, pH-balanced or slightly acidic moisturizer. Products close to the skin's naturally acidic pH can help support its protective barrier.

A good moisturizer doesn't have to be expensive. Look for products that are:

• pH balanced or slightly acidic

• Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic

• Moisturizing without irritating sensitive skin

• Absorbed well before putting on compression garments

After bathing, gently pat your skin dry rather than rubbing and apply moisturizer. Don't forget areas such as between skin folds and around the ankles and feet—but keep between the toes clean and thoroughly dry.

I use CeraVe intensive, Eucerin and Aveeno everyday.  When I was dealing with radiation burns, I used GlaxalBase which was given to me from the radiation nurses at the Cancer Center in Calgary. (Sandi).  

I use Patrick Curelle Hand & Body lotion daily. It is unscented, absorbs quickly and easily, contains no toxic solvents, and is well-tolerated even by sensitive skin. (Janine) 

Protect Your Skin from the Sun

A sunburn is more than uncomfortable when you have lymphedema—it is an injury to the skin that is best avoided. Use sunscreen and take precautions to prevent sunburns.

Consider a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, particularly if your skin is sensitive. Mineral sunscreens use ingredients such as zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide to provide UV protection. Choose a fragrance-free formulation if possible, and remember that protective clothing and shade are also excellent forms of sun protection.

I like doTerra sun face and body roll on for sunscreen as I was getting a rash when I used regular sunscreens. (Sandi)

Your Daily Skin Check

Take a few moments each day to look at your skin. Watch for cuts, cracks, blisters, insect bites or areas that are becoming unusually red, warm or painful. Good skincare isn't simply cosmetic when you have lymphedema—it is an important part of protecting yourself from infection.

Moisturize. Protect. Keep cool. Check your skin.
Four small habits that can make a meaningful difference in living well with lymphedema.

Keeping Cool in Compression

Wearing compression is an important part of managing lymphedema, but during warmer weather it can sometimes feel hot and uncomfortable. The good news is that compression garment manufacturers are increasingly focusing on fabrics and technologies designed to improve breathability, manage moisture and help keep the skin more comfortable.

Manufacturers including Juzo, JOBST, medi, Sigvaris and others offer compression garments with features aimed at improving comfort in warmer conditions. Depending on the product, these may include breathable or lightweight fabrics, moisture-wicking fibres, improved airflow and materials that help move moisture away from the skin.

Some manufacturers are taking this a step further by introducing cooling technology directly into compression products. Juzo, for example, has recently introduced cooling compression wraps for the foot and calf that combine medical compression with materials designed to improve heat dissipation and provide a cooler feeling against the skin.

Other manufacturers are incorporating advanced moisture-management systems into their lymphedema garments. JOBST, for example, describes an advanced moisture-management system in its Confidence garments to improve wearing comfort.

These developments are encouraging because the best compression garment is one that provides the appropriate compression and that you can comfortably wear consistently. If heat has made wearing your compression difficult, ask your certified lymphedema therapist or compression garment fitter about newer breathable, moisture-managing and cooling options.

Different garments provide different levels of containment and compression, so cooling and comfort are only part of the decision. Proper measurement and fitting remain essential when choosing a compression garment for lymphedema.

BCLA does not endorse any particular manufacturer or product. Brand names are included to illustrate some of the evolving technologies available in compression garments.

My name is Lynn Holloway and I am one of the founders of the BC Lymphedema Association.  On June 25^th, 2003 I had life-saving surgery for a large tumor in my left groin after completing radiation in Jan.  My surgeon told me I would have lymphedema, but I thought I could live with swollen ankles if I could just get rid of “Ted The Tumor”!  I had no clue what I was in for!  The radiation and surgery were considered palliative, but here I am on this side of the grass 23 years later!

As the groin area is one of the main thoroughfares for the lymphatic system and mine was now like cement, my left leg started swelling immediately.  My experience at the BC Cancer Clinic in Vancouver was tremendous, but when it came to giving me information on this chronic condition I would now have to live with, I got a piece of paper with the contact information for all the physiotherapy departments at hospitals in BC.  I started to scour the internet for information, but back then, there wasn’t a whole lot and nothing happening in BC that I was aware of.  I knew I was supposed to get a compression stocking once I healed, but did not know where to go to get that done.

I had been living at my mother’s in Vancouver while undergoing and recuperating from treatment, but when I went back home to Parksville, I connected with the physio department at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital (NRGH).  They had a Lymphapress™ system and I started that on Aug 14/03 and had my last one on Apr 17/04, when they had to cut me off from services.  The whole point of the exercise was to get my leg down in size so that I could then get measured for a compression stocking.  However, it was a colossal waste of time and resources as they didn’t know they should wrap me after my Lymphapress™ session, so my leg just filled up again.  It was almost a whole year before I ever got measured for a stocking!  Then don’t get me started on that fiasco.  Time after time my stocking would come in and it would be wrong somehow – made for the right leg, not the left; the whole inner thigh section missing, and on and on it went for likely another year.

My saving grace was when I met Catherine DiCecca, a RMT in Vancouver who had moved to Nanaimo and was serving both cities so I was able to avail myself of her service and knowledge if I was at home in Parksville or with my Mom in Vancouver.  She taught me so much about my condition.

It was Mar/06 when Catherine organized a dinner for a few of us with leg lymphedema (Rayma Hagan, Deanna Trewin and me) at The Topanga Café in Vancouver.  It was exciting for us to meet other people with this disease and discover how many issues we had in common – no help from the medical community; difficulty getting garments that fit; the expense of self-care, etc.  As we talked about all the problems we’d encountered, we knew that if we were struggling, there were others out there feeling the same way.  We decided to create a non-profit organization and began building BCLA.  Catherine enrolled a few other clients as well as Dr. Weiss and a physiotherapist he worked with. We started out as a non-profit and then began working on getting our charity status.

At our first weekend-long plenary session in 2007, we struggled over creating a vision statement, a mission, and goals that we could believe in.  We talked about ‘big dream’ stuff with no idea how we would ever get there and not knowing if it was even possible given we were just a few people trying to make a difference.  Today, many of those lofty dreams have come true and yet we still have so much more ground to conquer.  It has been the work of a handful of dedicated volunteers each year, building upon the achievements of the ones that went before them that have brought us to where we are now. 

After living with this condition for 23 years, my care has become simple.  As long as I have some form of compression on all day, I am happy with my care.  I was fortunate this year to work on reduction with the CircAid system through Terrie Huppie with Medi Canada (also my favourite stocking manufacturer).  I had incredible results initially by using the foot and knee-high portion, but when I added the knee and thigh high, nothing happened and my lower leg went back to the same size.  I am still learning about what my leg will do in certain circumstances.  I no longer spend money on massage therapy as we discovered by doing two-week intensives that not much changes measurement-wise and is expensive when you’re living on CPP & OAS only. 

My mobility is greatly challenged now as my foot has gone numb.  With no doctor for a number of years, it was difficult to get a referral to a specialist about this and now I’m not so sure anything can be done as the nerves are probably damaged beyond repair.  I have had a number of falls because of my foot.  Since being on Ozempic for a couple of years, I have lost a lot of muscle mass and don’t have the strength to hoist myself up and have had many embarrassing moments with having to have a couple of people try to hoist me back on my feet.  My mental health has also suffered and I medicate for anxiety and depression.  In my younger days, I was a plus-sized model and clothing designer for a time.  Gone are the days when I could wear what I wanted as footwear is only a particular athletic shoe that is wide with lots of support that only looks okay with slacks.  

When I have the opportunity to talk to newly diagnosed people, I mostly listen and empathize with how they’re feeling.  I let them know that in time, it will become their new normal and that this is a condition that will not tolerate being ignored.  You have to find your team of professionals that will support your well-being and try a number of things to see what works for you.

At 71 years of age, I may never see the day when I might be able to be helped in a more meaningful way, but I trust that things will improve.  I thank all the volunteers with BCLA that continue the work that we started to keep building forward momentum.

Written by: Lynn Holloway

Introduction:

My husband and I are retired and living in Chilliwack.   I spend a lot of time outdoors, walking, gardening and activities with friends and family.  I am a volunteer dog walker at our local shelter and previously a volunteer horse handler at a therapeutic riding facility until it closed.  Horseback riding was my passion for many years.

Background and Diagnosis:

In 2015 at age 71 I was diagnosed with breast cancer in my right breast.  Treatment was mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiation.  In 2018 I had reconstruction surgery.  Fast forward to December 2024 when I awoke to find my right arm and hand swollen.  Saw my family doctor, we both suspected lymphedema based on my history and he referred me to a vascular surgeon who confirmed the diagnosis of lymphedema.  A compression sleeve was prescribed with little else recommended.

Daily life and challenges:

I wear my compression sleeve for most of the day, sometimes removing it in the evening if it becomes uncomfortable.  Pulling it on is a challenge, a donning glove helps.  Clothing is also a challenge, finding tops with loose enough sleeves to accommodate swelling. 

Treatment and Management:

My daily routine dealing with this condition consists of manual lymphatic drainage massage which I do every morning.  I also do dry brushing before and after.  I have had one lymphatic massage done by a RMT who specializes in lymphedema, unfortunately it is rather costly.  I use a rebounder (mini trampoline) which helps get the lymphatic fluid moving.  All these things do take time but it is a daily necessity.  Arm mobility is affected as well as range of motion and twisting does cause discomfort, for instance, turning a can opener handle, turning the steering wheel in the car, clipping fingernails on the left hand with the right affected arm.  Pressure and aching are ongoing symptoms.  Compression sleeves, which must be replaced every six months, are costly but a necessity, not covered by MSP and we don’t have extended benefits.

Emotional and Social Impact:

I feel quite self-conscious about my arm and wear long sleeves year round to hide the sleeve and the arm swelling.  It was a complete surprise when I developed lymphedema as all through my cancer treatment and recovery it was never mentioned, just some vague remarks about protecting your arm, not having blood drawn or blood pressure taken on the arm.  Also, being a chronic condition, it’s a part of your life forever.

Coping and Resilience:

I try to keep in mind that I survived cancer, went through treatments and am living a full and active life with no recurrence.  Lymphedema is an after effect of these treatments.  There is hope as more research is being done, new therapies discovered and awareness of the condition is widening.  I do feel fortunate that my swelling has reduced by half since my diagnosis and is no longer in my hand. I attribute this to the therapies I’m doing at home, everything has some impact and combined have helped reduce the swelling for me.  There is hope and symptoms can be reduced for some people.

Advocacy:

I am quite open about my cancer journey and the lymphedema that followed and share it with others.  Amazing new treatments are being researched so there is hope for the future.  Trying to keep a positive outlook is helpful and carrying on with normal daily activities to help feel that your life doesn’t revolve around lymphedema.

BC Lymphedema Resources:

Finding resources and help for managing lymphedema seems to be something we have to take on ourselves.  As much as I appreciate my family doctor and the specialist who diagnosed me with lymphedema, it seems we are very much on our own seeking help.  The BC Lymphedema Association has been a valuable source of information. The newsletters are most informative and helpful in connecting us with up to date information and research.  Some others are included below.

BC Lymphedema Association 

Canadian Lymphedema Framework

Lymphatic Education and Research Network which is a US based website

Cancer Rehab PT, Kelly Sturm.  She produces excellent videos on MLD and other exercises to help reduce swelling and is very knowledgeable.

Written by: Julie Bowman

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.

Access to certified lymphedema therapists remains a significant challenge in many parts of British Columbia. While larger urban centres may have several practitioners, many communities—particularly in the Interior, Northern Health region, and other underserved areas—have few or no certified therapists. As a result, people living with lymphedema often face long wait times, extensive travel, or may be unable to access the specialized care they need.

To help address this gap, the BC Lymphedema Association (BCLA) offers Lymphedema Education Awards of up to $2,000 to healthcare professionals pursuing comprehensive lymphedema certification through a Lymphology Association of North America (LANA)-recognized training program.

These awards support registered healthcare professionals—including registered nurses (RNs), occupational therapists (OTs), physiotherapists (PTs), registered massage therapists (RMTs), and other eligible practitioners—as they develop the knowledge and skills to provide evidence-based lymphedema care in their communities.

Therapists listed in the BCLA Directory have completed a minimum of 135 hours of education in Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) and Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) through a LANA-recognized school. Approved education providers include:

• Dr. Vodder School International

• Klose Training

• Academy of Lymphatic Studies (ACOLS)

• International Lymphedema & Wound Training Institute (ILWTI)

• Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy

• Foeldi College

• Chikly Health Institute

• University of Alberta (micro credential for continuing Education, not a full CLT program)

By supporting healthcare professionals in obtaining certification, the BCLA is helping to expand access to quality lymphedema care throughout British Columbia—one therapist, one community, and one patient at a time.

So far in 2026, we have awarded nine therapist awards, investing a total of $14, 500 in funding to help strengthen our community.

The Education Award Program is funded through the generosity of donors who share our vision of improving access to lymphedema care across the province. If you would like to help support future awards, donations are always welcome and sincerely appreciated.

2026 LED Report

On May 8, 2026, the BC Lymphedema Association, in partnership with BC Cancer, hosted a Lymphedema Education Day for healthcare professionals. More than 160 occupational therapists, nurses, physiotherapists, physicians, massage therapists and other healthcare providers attended in person and virtually, demonstrating the growing demand for lymphedema education across British Columbia.

The day opened with Dr. Lauren Capozzi of BC Cancer Kelowna, who shared a vision of earlier diagnosis and treatment for lymphedema alongside a provincially integrated cancer rehabilitation program. With cancer-related lymphedema affecting nearly 28% of cancer survivors in Canada, increasing healthcare professionals' knowledge is essential to improving patient outcomes.

Attendees learned from leading Canadian experts on current best practices in lymphedema care, including Complete Decongestive Therapy, compression therapy, wound management, exercise, nutrition, research, and the LifestyleRX program. The conference received outstanding evaluations, with participants emphasizing the need for more educational opportunities like this.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors and supporters, BCLA continues to expand education, strengthen partnerships, and improve access to evidence-based care. Every healthcare professional we educate creates a ripple effect, helping more people receive earlier diagnosis, better treatment, and improved quality of life throughout British Columbia.

Introduction

My name is Raena Zapp. I am a 52-year-old woman living in South Surrey, BC. I have been a Registered Psychiatric Nurse for over 30 years, with a diverse clinical background in mental health and nursing leadership. Currently, I work full-time in healthcare and serve as a Board Member for Lipedema Canada. I have been married to my husband, Russell, for 21 years, and we have a 19-year-old son and two beloved dogs.

Background & Diagnosis - When did you first notice something wasn’t right?

I first noticed changes in my body around age ten, just before puberty. While the other girls in my school and ballet class remained slim, I began developing curves from the waist down at an accelerated rate. This marked the onset of lipedema—the progression of diseased adipose tissue.

For decades, I struggled with my "weight," which reached over 315 lbs by my 40s. During every period of hormonal shift—puberty, childbirth, and perimenopause—my body changed significantly despite rigorous diet and exercise. In 2007, I was treated for an eating disorder and successfully released 100 lbs; however, my lower body remained virtually unchanged. My mental health suffered as I felt I was doing everything "right" without seeing the results I expected.

What was your diagnosis experience like?

In 2024, a friend in the food addiction field asked if I had heard of lipedema. I hadn’t, but a quick search left me in shock; the photos I saw looked exactly like my own legs. I felt like I was looking at a mirror. I immediately began researching through the Lipedema Canada website and joined social media support groups.

I eventually found a local vascular surgeon, Dr. Khambati. I approached my family doctor with information from Lipedema Canada, requesting a referral and beginning conservative measures like prescription compression leggings. After ruling out other possible causes like diabetes, obesity, venous insufficiency and lymphedema, Dr. Khambati confirmed the diagnosis using a thorough medical history, physical exam and an in-office ultrasound.

He was honest about the landscape in Canada: there were no trained surgical specialists for this condition locally, and surgical intervention would not be funded by MSP. He supported my conservative management plan, including an anti-inflammatory diet, prescription made to measure compression, and Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). Leaving his office, I sat in my car and cried—tears of both relief for finally having an answer and grief for the long road ahead.

Daily Life & Challenges

What does a typical day look like managing lipedema?

My day begins with a "love-hate" ritual: donning my compression garments using gloves and a slider. While they are a struggle to put on and can be uncomfortably hot, I feel significantly better when I wear them.

My diet is regimented and focused on whole foods, avoiding inflammatory triggers like sugar and flour. Despite working full-time, I prioritize at least 10 minutes of physical activity daily. I also schedule weekly MLD massages with a certified professional, self MLD at home and physiotherapy to maintain my mobility and mental well-being.

How does lipedema affect your daily life?

Mobility requires constant planning. Sitting or standing for long periods is painful, so I elevate my legs whenever possible. I have to plan and allow extra time for dressing and trips to the washroom. Most importantly, I’ve learned to pace myself and speak up when I need rest. Learning to say "no" has been a challenge, but I realize I cannot support others if my own tank is empty.

In March 2026, I traveled to Germany for the first of several self-funded surgeries. Surgeons removed 11.5L of diseased tissue from the front of my legs. While the recovery has been slow and I faced some post-operative complications, the support from my medical team was exceptional. This surgery was not about aesthetics; it was about preserving my quality of life and regaining hope for my future mobility.

Emotional & Social Impact

Living with lipedema has taken a heavy emotional toll. For years, I faced fat bias and stigmatization, believing that my inability to lose weight was a personal failure. The judgment from society, the media, and even healthcare professionals is exhausting. I have dealt with depression and anxiety as a result, but I am grateful to say that I am currently doing well.

Coping & Resilience

What helps you cope?

I have a solid support system and find balance by helping others while practicing self-care. Gratitude, spirituality, and taking life "one day at a time" have given me a new perspective.

What advice would you give to someone newly diagnosed?

Stick to verified, research-based platforms like Lipedema Canada. Be skeptical of "quick fixes" or "cures" advertised on social media. Connect with others who share your experience—isolation is the enemy.

What gives you hope moving forward?

My work with Lipedema Canada is incredibly rewarding. Knowing that there are a group of dedicated people working together in Canada plus advancements in international research and standards gives me hope that Canada will soon recognize this condition and provide equitable healthcare. I am particularly excited about our first Canadian Lipedema Conference in Winnipeg LipCanCon this September—it is a massive step forward for our community!

What is Lipedema?

Lipedema is a chronic and painful fat distribution disorder that affects an estimated 1 in 9 women (assigned female at birth). Lipedema is characterized by a symmetrical and disproportionate accumulation of fatty tissue in the legs, hips, and arms, often accompanied by pain, heightened sensitivity to touch, mobility challenges, difficulty losing weight, and reduced quality of life. Although it presents with distinct symptoms, lipedema is frequently misunderstood or misdiagnosed. While there is no cure, various treatments can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.(Lipedema Canada, 2026)

Lipedema Awareness Day

June 11 is Lipedema Awareness day.  Lipedema Canada currently has 15 sites confirmed across BC that will be lit up purple in recognition of this day. Sites include the BC legislature, Sails of Light, Vancouver Convention Centre, Olympic Cauldron.

Written by: Raena Zapp

In July 1965, I emigrated to Canada as a Home Economics teacher, working in Squamish, Burnaby and North Vancouver. After obtaining an M.Ed. in Counselling Psychology, I completed my career as an itinerant Area Counsellor in the N. Vancouver elementary school system. Upon retirement in 1997, I moved to the Sunshine Coast, an amazing place for an active outdoor lifestyle.

My lymphedema journey started in spring 1992, when, for no apparent reason, my right arm swelled to over twice its regular size. After multiple tests over several months, I was diagnosed with primary lymphedema tarda, with guidance to “wear a compression sleeve when flying and elevate your arm as much as possible.” That summer, with no idea how to manage the swelling, I headed to France on a cycling trip in the Loire Valley. I thought that placing my arm in cool market square fountains at the end of each day might help! If only I had known that wearing a compression sleeve would make all the difference.

At that time, volunteer organizations such as BCLA or CLF did not exist, and the use of internet searching was in its infancy. Every few years I would ask my doctor, “Is there any new learning about lymphedema?” You can guess the reply.

As you can imagine, the absence of a daily management strategy led to problems, including: increased swelling to stage 2.5, lymphorrhea, and several cellulitis attacks, including one while on a kayaking adventure in the wilderness. Eventually I learned to carry an antibiotic prescription whenever I was away from home, even for one night.

The first year after diagnosis I saw an MLD therapist but found it ineffective: without compression my arm swelled again within hours of treatment. My “saving grace” in those early years were lifestyle choices including exercise and diet.

Following the birth of my first child in 1970, I learned that I had hypoglycemia and that without changing my diet I would be at risk of developing diabetes.

For the first year, my diet involved controlling insulin surges by reducing stimulants such as sugar, alcohol, coffee and tea. Consuming protein at every meal and foods that are slow to digest such as whole-grain & vegetables. Basically, an ant inflammatory diet which proved valuable in managing edema once the swelling started.

The other half of the plan was to exercise regularly to draw energy stored in the muscles rather than going for a sweet treat or caffeine stimulant to give me a boost. Since then, I have established a routine of almost daily exercise including; aerobics, weight training, cycling and swimming. Each of these activities maintains muscle tone to help keep lymph fluid moving.

In 2012, I had my most serious bout of cellulitis, requiring seven days of intravenous injections and a great deal of pain. My GP referred me to a vascular surgeon for a lymphoscintigraphy and an official diagnosis of lymphedema by sheer chance was made. At the end of the appointment the specialist mentioned Dr. Elliott Weiss as someone who might know something about lymphedema! 

From that point on I was on the right track. I was referred to Holy Family Hospital for three months of reduction treatment followed by a prescription for compression. The best part of all was that I heard about BCLA. Through their conferences and workshops, I learned self-management strategies and for the last 13 years have maintained the reduced volume and have had only one minor infection.

I wear a compression sleeve every day, and although the dietary restriction has eased a little, I maintain an anti-inflammatory style of eating and avoid sugar and processed foods. I eat homemade granola for breakfast most mornings and regularly participate in some form of exercise. I have recently been paying more attention to weight training to avoid fragility by maintaining muscle mass and bone density that are so common in older people.

Being active plays an important part in my attitude and energy level. I am fortunate in that, compared to many, my lymphedema is now mild thus I have the energy and time to help others whose lives are more severely impacted. 

The past 20 years have seen huge developments in awareness, research, new programs and treatment options for lymphedema. It is an exciting time to be involved, with so much to learn. This is what keeps me motivated to keep advocating for compression garments and appropriate treatment, I am passionate about helping others to ensure are they are not left for years without the education and tools to take care of themselves.

Christine Chandler 

PS: Fifty-five years later I have never developed diabetes!

Thanks to Irving and Diane Kipness foundation, research to better understand lymphedema is underway at the University of Alberta under Dr. Spencer Gibson.

I attended a webinar hosted by the AQL (Lymphedema Association of Quebec) where Dr. Gibson presented the research they are doing to find a cure for lymphedema.  He explained that understanding basic science has driven major medical breakthroughs and gave one example:

• From studying Fruit flies – there was a breakthrough in targeted therapy for breast cancer 

In their research to date, they have a theory that stress on the lymphatic system is what blocks the lymphatic system from self-repairing.  In using mice as models, they saw improvement in lymphatic system stress when changing the mice’s diet after surgery.  This along with a study in Italy targeting lymphedema in overweight breast cancer survivors shows promise in a mediterranean diet helping reducing lymphedema (Molina et al 2025 Nutrients). 

This theory will lead to future studies where they will need patients to help move the research from a mice model to human model.

Jean LaMantia, Registered Dietician has written several books on how diet can help lymphedema and LifestyleRX is another program to look into.  One of the things you can do on your own is track your food intake and if you notice increased swelling – check which foods you ate the day before to identify foods that are inflammatory for your system.

Written by: Sandi McConnach