Lymphedema advocates from around the world are joining together on March 6 to establish the second annual World Lymphedema Day.
The Town of Gibsons is supporting this cause by proclaiming March 6 Lymphedema Awareness Day at its Feb. 21 council meeting. The District of Sechelt will also proclaim the day at its council meeting to be held on March 1.
Lymphedema is a chronic lymphatic disease that results in disfiguring swelling in one or more parts of the body. Lymph is a protein-rich body fluid that accumulates in tissues when the lymphatic system is damaged. The lymphatic system assists in maintaining fluid balance in the body, and is an integral part of the immune system, transporting infection-fighting cells to tissues that require assistance. When the lymphatic system is compromised by surgery, trauma or improper development, the affected part of the body is prone to recurrent infection.
The BC Lymphedema Association (BCLA) is a charity made up of volunteer board members, many of whom live with lymphedema. Together they work to support others who live with this little known chronic condition that has no cure.
Treatments for lymphedema are available only through private therapists and can create financial hardship for many people with the disease who are unable to work. In B.C., there are no specialized treatment centres covered under the medical plan.
Chronic lymphedema requires daily wear of medical compression garments to manage the condition successfully. These garments are expensive and B.C. has very limited coverage.
For more information, call 1-866-991-2252 or see the BCLA website at www.bclymph.org where you can also donate to the cause to help make lymphedema advocacy, awareness, education and support possible.
– Submitted
