01 — Newly Diagnosed

We’ve all been there. Cue the glazed-over eyes. Prepare to enter a whole new world that many still don’t understand.

02 — Managing on Your Own

Once you’ve been diagnosed and given a few tips, weeks or months of treatment, you’ll be sent back out on your own. Unfortunately, insurance won’t pay for ongoing treatment. Managing can be difficult on your own.

03 — A Flare-Up

Even if you do everything right lymphedema is a progressive disease. Flare-up will happen. Being proactive, listening to your body and doing something as quickly as possible can help reverse any swelling and damage to your body as much as possible.

04 — The Long Haul

This journey is an ongoing marathon without a finish line. The mental game can be just as tough, if not more difficult than the physical one. Some days are good. Some aren’t. Trying to keep a positive outlook when dealing with chronic pain and symptoms can be a challenge, but having others who understand can help make things easier.

04 — Aging in Place

Everything can become more difficult as you age. Changes in barometric pressure. Rain days. Hot, muggy days. Menstrual cycles. Menopause. Hot flashes. Less mobility. Staying as active as possible will help.