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VickiSpanring's avatar
VickiSpanring
Member
14 years ago

We have a choice

There I was, minding my own business, enjoying my life and Breast Screen rang and said they'd like me to come in for another test after my recent mammogram. Of course, I said, no problem, I said. Breast cancer wasn't in my life plan. And then the biopsy and ultra sound found the cancer. I was stunned. My first reaction I guess was, you've got the wrong person. Check again. Not the most unusual reaction was it? So two weeks later, I had a mastectomy. Three weeks later I started a six month chemotherapy program, then two months of radiotherapy. I won't bore you with all the details, because you have all either gone through it, or loved someone who has gone through it. Somewhere along the way, I was also diagnosed with lymphedema. You know, this could've been the straw breaking the proverbial camels back. It was just devastating. And even worse, once diagnosed, it's a forever thing. In the first instance, you need to massage daily, have lymph drainage professionally, and most importantly wear a compression sleeve daily. And the sleeve is also forever. Flying, exercising or heavy work require the wearing of a sleeve I was so cross that the only sleeves I could find were "victim like". So I went looking for a better alternative And I found it A beautiful girl in the US thought the same as I had. . She went to work to design a medically correct sleeve. Sadly, this gorgeous girl is no longer with us. But her wonderful family continues her vision as her legacy. And now I find myself the exclusive importer of these beautiful lympheDiIVA sleeves into Australia under my little company LympheDonna. It is the sweetest victory to give Aussie women a choice in the management of our lymphedema. There are over 100 gorgeous patterned sleeves, gauntlets to match, they have a "diamond band" to reduce that rolling at the top of the sleeve, they are aloe vera treated, moisture wickered and just stunning. It's the most wonderful thing to wear something that is attractive, comfortable, fashionable and also says, I'm proud of who I am and what I have gone through! One day, I'm going to wake up and say, you know what? This has made a difference to women, and only through the darkest of days did it come to fruition. There are sincerely wonderful things out there and I am so grateful for this marvellous experience. And I thank Rachel. God bless. Have a look at www.lymphedonna.com.au or contact me on [email protected] or 0418 774 046

5 Replies

  • VickiSpanring's avatar
    VickiSpanring
    Member
    14 years ago
    Good on you inpink! I know EXACTLY how you feel. The whole concept of lymphedema and it's management suddenly becomes easier doesn't it? So glad youre getting some from the US. I'm sure you'll be delighted. Vicki
  • Anonymous's avatar
    Anonymous
    Not applicable
    14 years ago

    Hi Vicki,

    Thanks for sharing the information about your compression sleeves - they really are beautiful! So others seeking products and services related to Lymphoedema can find your sleeves you may want to visit BCNA's Local Services Directory and you can list the service.

    If this is something you wish to do then all you need to do is follow this link and create your listing: http://www.bcna.org.au/sharing-support/find-services-your-area

    Just shout if you need more information or support.

    Cheers, Daina

  • inpink's avatar
    inpink
    Member
    14 years ago
    Hi Vicki, Thanks for your info on Rachel beautiful sleeves. I'm awaiting the arrival of an order I placed from the U.S. I was thrilled when I discovered this product and almost got excited at the prospect of having to wear a sleeve. They certainly add fun to wearing a sleeve. Lymphoedema wasnt something I'd factored in before my treatment for breast cancer and the impact came as a shock once the treatments were finished. Thanks for your website, I shall use your service in the future.