My Fashion Don't

My Fashion Don't

 

“Lymphedema occurs when the lymph system is damaged or blocked. Fluid builds up in soft body tissues and causes swelling. It is a common problem that may be caused by cancer and cancer treatment. Lymphedema can cause long-term physical, psychological, and social problems for patients.” www.cancer.gov

In November, I had 12 lymph nodes surgically removed to determine whether my cancer had spread to other parts of my body.  Because I no longer have those lymph nodes I am forever at risk of developing a potentially permanent swelling in my right arm.  I googled “lymphedema images” and that was a mistake.  Don’t make the same mistake.

I went to visit a lymphedema specialist after being referred to go in for an evaluation by my radiation oncologist and now the therapist wants to see me twice a week for the next four weeks.  That means that at the very minimum I will have at least 7 doctor’s appointments a week!  Really?  I’m trying to have a life here.  And she wants me to wear my compression sleeve during the day.  Ugh.  Picture me “enjoying” a lovely summer day with a beige colored sleeve wrapping my entire right arm and my scarf covering any exposing skin on my neck, chest, and shoulder.  It is not exactly the most ideal of summer outfits.  I worry that I will land myself on one of those Glamour DON’T pages with the black bar covering my eyes to save me from being humiliated, but I can recognize my own sweaty head anywhere.  I don’t want to dismiss the seriousness of lymphedema, but I just don’t know if I am willing to take it this far.  The cancer had spread and that’s why I am having the lymph node area radiated as well, currently putting me at an increased risk of lymphedema.  Cancer is so not glamorous!

Looking on the Bright Side…I suppose technically a compression sleeve is better looking than an extremely swollen arm, aka “lymphostatic elephantiasis.”  I know you want to google it.  You’ve been warned.





A major fashion DON'T

I look like a strange superhero wannabe with an injured arm and an unfortunate haircut!