My disease, lymphedema, was traced back to having lymph nodes removed during cancer surgery in 2004. In my search for answers, the Lymphatic Education & Research Network was a tremendous source of information and support. LE&RN estimates that up to 10 million Americans suffer from lymphedema and other lymphatic diseases. Many cases occur after cancer surgeries. Many cases are the result of other trauma. Many cases are with people from birth. All over the Internet, lymphatic disease is lumped under “rare diseases.” How can a disease be rare when 10 million Americans suffer from it?
In 2016, the New York Legislature became the world’s first governing body to mark March 6 as World Lymphedema Day. This year, as LE&RN’s New York State Chapter secretary, I hope to raise awareness and to encourage anyone who has unexplained swelling to ask their doctor if their suffering could be due to lymphatic disease. While there is no cure, treatment methods are available that are helping millions to control their swelling and increase their quality of life. For more information, visit lymphaticnetwork.org. Also, to sign the petition asking the World Health Organization to make the focus of World Health Day 2018 “Lymphedema: Awareness & Cures,” please visit https://www.change.org/p/world-health-organization-who-designate-lymphedema-awareness-cures-as-the-2018-world-health-day-campaign-for-who
It’s time for these diseases to garner the attention they deserve so millions of people may find relief and so LE&RN may help to find a cure.
— Lisa McPartland is a Kenmore resident and LE&RN New York Chapter secretary
