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

Having tools to help with moving your lymph at home makes life a tad easier. Two that I have found very handy over the years are a vibration plate and a rebounder.

Vibration Plate

What is interesting about a vibration plate is the different ways it can be used to help move your lymph. Standing, sitting down with your feet on the vibration plate or having your arm on the vibration plate.

I find I like setting up my vibration plate in my kitchen close enough to the counter so I can grab it if I get off balance. If you feel pins and needles when you are using your vibration plate don’t panic. It is a sign that you have been moving your lymph. I have found that I need to have shoes on when I use my vibration plate. 

Start with the vibration on a low level. As Jean LaMantia says in Complementary Therapies for Lymphedema ‘If you plan to try a vibration plate “start low and go slow.” Start with 5 to 10 minute sessions and low vibration. Drink water before and after your session. 

Vibration plates range in price, depending on what features you want. Check out the weight restrictions before you decide. Check with your lymphedema therapist and see what they would recommend.

There are some good vibration plate videos on YouTube. Here is a link to some of them 

https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&hs=VZP&sca_esv=7127d2bfff853169&rls=en&udm=7&q=using+a+vibration+plate+for+lymphatic+drainage&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiuj-LmlP2TAxWTEDQIHaGTHPwQ8ccDKAJ6BAgdEAQ&biw=1203&bih=557&dpr=2#ip=1

Rebounder

Interestingly for all the popularity of the rebounder in the Lymphedema community there are no studies on it as how it helps Lymphedema or Lipedema. There are studies showing it’s benefits for other conditions include lung function, anaerobic performance, blood pressure, bone density and quality of life. Anecdotally many dealing with lymphatic conditions find it helps move the lymph and feel better after using their rebounders.

My rebounder has a senior bar that I can hold onto when bouncing. It comes in handy for those of us dealing with balance issues. Again start slow, move your feet and get the feel of the movement before doing any bouncing. Bounce for 10 to 15 minutes and again drink some water before and after a session. I find having my rebounder set up so I can watch tv while bouncing. Again there are several rebounder work outs on YouTube.

One advantage of both of these tools is the ability to use them year round. The more we move our lymph the better we feel, either vibrating or bouncing.

Written by: Willa Condy

The gold standard for managing lymphedema (LE) includes compression, manual lymph drainage, skin care, and exercise—but nutrition plays an important role as well.

I’ve learned that an anti-inflammatory approach to eating can be especially beneficial. After completing the Lifestyle RX program, I gained practical strategies to support lymphatic health through diet. Personally, I’ve lost a few pounds, feel more energized and am motivated to make healthier food choices—though it can still be challenging at times.  

A few changes I made: the biggest was increasing my protein intake, which helps me stay full longer and has significantly reduced my sweet cravings. My go-to protein sources include beans and lentils, plain non-fat Greek yogurt, dry curd cottage cheese, chicken breast, and fish like sardines & salmon. I also swap white pasta for chickpea pasta, which is higher in both fibre and protein.

I now fast for 12–14 hours each day and include sauerkraut in my daily salads. Because of these changes, I only occasionally enjoy a small baked treat or something sweet—and I feel healthier because of it.
I’ve learned to focus on progress over perfection—better, not perfect!

Here are a few key tips:

1. Stay well hydrated throughout the day—water is the best and easiest choice. 

2. Focus on whole foods like fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, unprocessed proteins, and plenty of herbs and spices. 

3. Limit ultra-processed foods. It’s not always easy, but it can make a meaningful difference. 

4. Aim for at least 30 grams of fibre daily. Include foods like fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, and whole grains such as oats, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and psyllium. For example, adding a tablespoon each of chia, hemp, and ground flaxseed to cereal or oats with berries is a simple boost. 

5. “Eat the rainbow” by including a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables in your meals. 

6. Support gut health with fermented foods like sauerkraut, kefir, and kombucha. 

7. Limit alcohol intake. 

8. Target about 1.2–1.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily (roughly 30–50 grams per meal). Good sources include lean meats, chicken breast, fish, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, tofu, tempeh, legumes, nuts, and whole grains. 

9. Reduce saturated fats by choosing healthier options like olive oil, avocado oil, or canola oil instead of butter or lard. 

10. Consider a lower-fat version of the Mediterranean diet—cut back on fatty meats, processed foods, excess salt, and high-fat dairy. 

Some great resources on lymphedema and diet:

The Complete Lymphedema Management and Nutrition Guide: Empowering Strategies, Supporting Recipes and Therapeutic Exercises, by Jean LaMantia & Ann DiMenna 

Lymphedema and Lipedema Nutrition Guide, by Chuck Ehrlich & Associates

Lifestyle RX - a MSP covered, virtual lifestyle medicine program which was initially a program to reverse Type 2 Diabetes and improve metabolic health, but now also includes several other conditions including high cholesterol and lymphedema. https://lifestylerx.io/

Grace Dedinsky-Rutherford, BSc, RMT, CDT (Dr. Vodder)
Registered Massage Therapist, British Columbia

I have been a Registered Massage Therapist in British Columbia since 1992. After completing my Bachelor of Science degree at the University of British Columbia, my intention was to pursue a career in rehabilitation medicine. However, life intervened in a way that profoundly reshaped both my personal and professional path.

Shortly after graduating from UBC, my father was diagnosed with a Grade IV glioblastoma brain tumour. Faced with the reality of his prognosis and wanting to remain close to home to support him during his illness, I enrolled in and completed the two-year Massage Therapy program in British Columbia. What began as a practical decision soon became deeply meaningful.

During the final months of my father’s life, as his body systems began to shut down, he developed significant edema. With only the foundational manual lymph drainage (MLD) skills I had learned in school, I did what I could to offer comfort and relief. While I did not yet fully understand the lymphatic system or the scope of what MLD could offer, I witnessed firsthand how gentle, skilled touch could ease discomfort, reduce tension, and provide a sense of calm during the most vulnerable phase of life. That experience stayed with me long after my father passed away following a 22-month journey with cancer.

Years later, while teaching at a massage therapy college, the topic of manual lymph drainage was raised during instruction. In that moment, my clinical work and my personal history converged. I recognized that my experience “walking with cancer” alongside my father—and the limited yet meaningful relief MLD had provided him—was calling me to deepen my knowledge. I enrolled in the Dr. Vodder School and became a Certified Dr. Vodder Manual Lymph Drainage Therapist. I have never looked back.

Now, after more than 26 years as a certified Dr. Vodder therapist, I have had the privilege of working with hundreds—indeed thousands—of individuals living with lymphatic and vascular conditions. These include primary and secondary lymphedema, lipedema, venous insufficiencies, post-surgical swelling following hip and knee replacements, and complex oncologic presentations. Each patient brings a unique story, yet they are united by the quiet perseverance required to navigate the world with chronic swelling, altered body image, recurrent infections, and ongoing self-management demands.

In 2009, after years of treating patients and advocating within the medical community in North Vancouver, I collaborated with my patients to host a Lymphedema Awareness Day. This event marked a significant milestone, as it coincided with the launch of the British Columbia Lymphedema Association (BCLA). The day provided a rare and powerful opportunity for individuals living with lymphedema to gather, share experiences, and recognize that they were not alone in managing a swollen arm, leg, face, or trunk. The collective sense of validation and community was profound.

Reflecting on decades of clinical practice, it is impossible to select a single defining patient story. Instead, what stands out is the cumulative impact of walking alongside individuals who manage their conditions daily through manual lymph drainage, compression therapy, bandaging, exercise, meticulous skin care, and constant vigilance against cellulitis. Their resilience is humbling, and their trust has been one of the greatest gifts of my professional life.

What began as a desire to help my father became not just a career, but a vocation. Over the past six years, that vocation has evolved further as I assumed leadership within the Dr. Vodder School International educational program. Through this role, I have had the opportunity to support the education of therapists and, by extension, the care of patients across Canada, the United States, Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Malaysia, Australia, and New Zealand.

Each day, I am reminded that lymphatic care is both a science and an art—one rooted in anatomy, physiology, and evidence-based practice, yet equally grounded in compassion, patience, and human connection. My cup is truly full, and I continue to find deep joy and purpose in the work I am privileged to do.

Compression garments. We do need them but I think honestly we all have a love hate relationship. Buying it isn’t cheap. Replacing it has to be done on a regular basis. In summer they are hot and uncomfortable.  Why do we bother? That is the question that inquiring minds want answered.

Do you know compression was actually used in ancient Egypt and Rome? Doctors had figured wrapping legs with bandages helped with leg ulcers and other ailments.

How much compression is enough? That is a question to discuss with your medical support team and a qualified fitter. Something to always remember you can always go up to a higher grade of compression but once you move up it is harder to go down.

Why bother with going to a certified fitter? They can evaluate the area that you need compression on and determine which garment is best to work. They consider the shape of the limb involved determines if the patient can use a ready-made garment or requires a custom fit. 

When we are getting fitted our attention is on the finished product — not all the steps that the fitter takes to get that perfect fit. Three cheers for a good fitter! They also know from the severity of the Lymphedema or Lipedema what level compression to use. 

Compression is still the gold standard for helping control lymphedema and lipedema.

Tips for garments is to keep them clean. Washing daily is a must. Unfortunately garments do lose their elasticity and they need to be replaced after six months of daily wear.

Yes, you can get a sunburn through your garments. So use sunscreen before putting on your garments or wear sun protected clothing over top to protect your skin.

I know compression garments are now being used by top athletes. But the true heroes are those with lymphatic disease that wear their compression. 

Written by: Willa