Next challenge

I hear you re the lymphedema. I got lymphedema after my second diagnosis. I was so angry!! I found it harder to deal with than my cancers!! Luckily if that is what you have you have found it early. I am now almost 3 years since my lymphedema diagnosis but it is much improved. I don't always have to wear my sleeve, although I still wear it often. I believe it is the time I put in to maintain ace that has helped. Massage is brilliant. I don't know if you have been told this, and forgive me if you have. Before you massage take 10 really big breaths in and out. Right down into your tummy. Then gently massage all your lymph glands...groin, underarm of unaffected arm, above and below collar bone, and neck. Once you do that start by massaging your stomach in gentle strokes down like stroking an angry cat. So not to hard. Then massage across under your chest, and then above your chest. The aim being to take fluid towards lymph glands and away from your affected arm. Then hold your arm up and massage starting at the shoulder massaging away from your hand. Gently work your way down your arm always massaging away from the hand. When you finish, take another 5 deep breaths and re massage all the lymph glands. This is how my oncology occupational therapist who looked after my lymphedema taught me. She is GOD to me. She got my sausage fingers and puffy hand under control. Once again I apologize if I have just told you what you already know. Great you are already massaging. It's amazing the difference it makes. I still do it every single day and believe it has really helped my lymphedema. So great you can get into the lymphedema Dr. I live in Cairns so no such thing up here. But brilliant oncology occupational therapists. I really hope you have a great family Easter and yes dark chocolate is good for us ;) Paula x