Do you wear a sleeve or glove or both?
I have lymphoedema in my arm and hand from breast cancer surgery. I am frustrated in managing it. I have tried a sleeve... my hand and fingers swelled up. I tried a glove with a sleeve and my hand puffed up. I have tried a sleeve with gauntlet (all one piece) and my fingers and hand swelled up. I am curious how many women are having hand swelling with their lymphodema? Everything in research seems to imply that most women just need a sleeve and it magically doesn't trap the fluid in their hand. I am just wondering if the images of women wearing cute sleeves to manage their lymphodema is not realistic of the real world. My question to you all is... when you lymphdema swells which parts of your arm, hand and fingers swell? And what do you wear... just a sleeve, a sleeve and a glove, a sleeve and a gauntlet or something all in one.📅Lymphoedema Association Australia - Melbourne Information Day - 20 June
If you or someone in your community is living with lymphoedema, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn, connect, and feel supported. 📅 Saturday, 20 June 2026 🕙 10:00am – 3:30pm 📍 William Angliss Conference Centre, Melbourne This informative day will cover: ✨ Understanding lymphoedema ✨ Latest research and insights ✨ Practical self‑management strategies ✨ Navigating support programs like SWEP ✨ Connecting with experts, exhibitors, and others on a similar journey 👉 Learn more or register here: https://www.lymphaustralia.org.au/eventdetails/38302/laa-melbourne-public-information-day-vic Please feel free to share this with your networks, someone out there may really need it 💗Lymphoedema Information & Events
Lymphoedema can develop after breast cancer surgery or radiotherapy treatment. If lymph nodes are removed – usually from the armpit – fluid can build up and cause swelling known as ‘lymphoedema’. Find out what causes it, ways to reduce your risk of lymphoedema, and what to do if you develop lymphoedema. Signs and symptoms of lymphoedema Reduce your risk of lymphoedema Lymphoedema treatment Compression garments for lymphoedema Coping with lymphoedema Watch Ask the Expert 'Living well with lymphoedema' - with Maree O’Connor🩺LeaN On Program: reducing the risk of lymphoedema
LeaN On - a research initiative led by Professor Bogda Koczwara and developed by Flinders University in partnership with BCNA, was developed in response to a long‑standing gap in survivorship care. Lymphoedema is a chronic condition affecting the arm or hand that can develop weeks, months or even years after breast cancer treatment, yet many people report receiving little guidance about early warning signs, risk reduction or when to seek support. LeaN On is an evidence‑based digital platform designed to support people who are living with, or concerned about, lymphoedema after breast cancer. The platform guides users through a simple 12‑step online journey, with each step offering small, manageable and practical information to help people: understand what lymphoedema is recognise early signs and symptoms take actions now to reduce risk know when and how to seek professional support The platform is currently being trialed through a research study, evaluating how lymphoedema support can be delivered online, including both self‑directed and nurse‑supported options. Its online design allows people to access guidance regardless of where they live, including in regional and rural areas where access to specialist care can be limited. Consumer perspectives have been embedded throughout the project. Participants for co‑design activities were recruited through the Review and Survey Group, and BCNA supported the research by appointing a trained Consumer Representative to the project team. This ensured lived experience informed both the development of the platform and the research approach. Both the platform and the study underpinning its development have now been published, and people affected by breast cancer are invited to trial LeaN On by contacting [email protected] Learn more about the LeaN On project: BCNA overview article Flinders University article and trial information Published study👋 Quick reminder for anyone interested in lymphoedema information and upcoming events
There’s a really helpful discussion thread on the Online Network focused on lymphoedema information and events. The thread is regularly updated with upcoming events by our Online Network members - with a special shout‑out to Kristen for consistently sharing and keeping the information current 👏💛 If you haven’t already, take a moment to check it out and join the conversation here: 👉 Lymphoedema Information & Events | BCNA Online Network Feel free to share your experiences, ask questions, or add any events or resources you know about.
Sutherland Lymphoedema Support Group
New Lymphoedema face to face Support group for anyone Southern Sydney,St George areas as well as the Shire etc/ 'Under the umbrella' of Lymphoedmea Support Group of NSW For all types of lymphoedmea, not just breast cancer related, but there are quite a few BC related lymphies in the group and on the email list already. Everyone welcome, whether you have Lo or not, carers of people with LO, curious, service providers, guys, girls... Lovely location with beautiful beach view. No need to RSVP , just turn up and grab a coffee at the cafe and join us around the table in the semi private dining room. More directions and images on the Facebook page. Primary contact to group coordinators is via phone and email at the moment Note: A special Introductory night time meeting on Tuesday 25th Feb 6 pm Cronulla RSL. This is a first time a night meeting has been organised. Or every Third Tuesday of the month 10.30amSutherland Shire Breast Cancer Support Group
Sutherland Shire Breast Cancer Support Group Anyone who has ever had a breast cancer diagnosis is most welcome to come along to any of our meetings. 1st Wednesday of the month 7-9 pm at Tradies Gymea 57 Manchester Rd Gymea *5.30 pm Pre-group dinner in Willow Restaurant 3rd Saturday of the month At Camelia Gardens Tea Rooms 9.45-11.45 am President Ave, Caringbah As March is Lymphoedema Awareness month we have guest speaker ,physio specialist and very experienced in all things Lymphoedema We have a Facebook page and an email group for newsletters🗓 Lymphoedema Association Australia - Public Information Day
Lymphoedema Australia is inviting community members, carers, and health professionals to attend their Public Information Day - a special event designed to empower people living with lymphoedema with knowledge, connection, and practical tools. 🗓 Date: Saturday, 30 June 2026 📍 Location: The Angliss Conference Centre, 555 La Trobe Street, Melbourne ⏰ Time: 10.00am–3:30pm Attendees will hear from leading lymphoedema specialists on topics including: ✔ Understanding lymphoedema and its impact ✔ Treatment options and self‑management strategies ✔ Advances in clinical care ✔ Emotional wellbeing and support for daily life The day will also feature exhibitor displays, product demonstrations, and opportunities to connect with others living with or supporting someone with lymphoedema. 🎟 All are welcome - patients, families, clinicians, and anyone wanting to better understand this chronic condition. Tickets are now available through Lymphoedema Australia. 🔗 Learn more & register hereMarch 6th was Lymphoedema Awareness Day ❤️
Living with lymphoedema after breast cancer can feel like an emotional rollercoaster. It’s okay to feel upset or overwhelmed by the experience of a chronic condition. Whether it’s impacting your body image or your relationships, your feelings are valid. The good news? As you learn to manage the physical symptoms, the emotional weight often lifts too. Steps to support living with lymphoedema: ✨ Talk to your team: Reach out to your breast care nurse, GP, or therapist. ✨ Access help: Ask your GP about a Mental Health Treatment Plan and/or a Chronic Condition Management Plan for Medicare-subsidised support. ✨Connect: Sharing experiences with others who "get it" can make all the difference. Our incredible Online Network is here for you, please reach out whenever you need to chat. For more information and support call our Helpline on 1800 500 258 between Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm.🌸 Friday Update – 20 Feb 26
Hello everyone and welcome to Friday! I'm filling in for the Online Network content today, so I thought we’d wind things back to one of my classic Friday Updates - a gentle wrap‑up of what’s been happening across our BCNA community. 🏃♀️ Carman’s Fun Run – What a Day! Last Sunday’s Carman’s Fun Run was an incredible celebration of strength, spirit and community. Despite the rain, more than 8,000 participants came together in a wave of pink and helped raise over $315,000 for Australians affected by breast cancer. A huge congratulations to all participants, and a massive thank you to our amazing volunteers, fundraisers and partners who made it all possible 🙌 🏔️ Cheering on Kristal Kinsela – Trek4BCNA We also want to highlight Kristal Kinsela, one of BCNA’s ambassadors, who is currently undertaking Trek4BCNA: Kilimanjaro 2026challenge. Kristal’s commitment to raising awareness and funds for BCNA continues to inspire many across our community. 🌿 What’s new around BCNA and here in the Online Network Recent posts in our News and events section continue to provide support, connection and valuable information - including: Wednesday Wellness - 18Feb26 - Mindfulness Consumer voice strengthens health education Current Research Exploring the Role of AI in Breast Cancer | BCNA Online Network Lymphoedema Information & Events | BCNA Online Network BCNA's Breast self check | Know Yourself. Feel Yourself. content remains active, helping to promote early detection and greater awareness across our social channels 💗 Signing‑off It’s been great to connect with you all, and I hope you continue to find the support and conversations here helpful. A quick reminder that the BCNA Helpline team is available Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm (AEDT) if you need information, support or guidance toward appropriate services.
