6 months today! It's crazy to think that it was only 6 months ago that I was lying in a hospital bed for 3 weeks. At the beginning of this year I started a crazy journey that has taken me places I wouldn't have imagined for myself. I chose to have a lymph node transfer for many reasons but overall I think it was because I didn't want to be defeated. I didn't want to just manage my leg as it progressively got worse. Going into this I had so much hope for a great outcome, probably even something that would be considered a medical miracle. I have learned so much from this process, and I am grateful for that. I am also grateful that I have been able to join forces with the lymphedema community which is much larger than I was led to believe when I was first diagnosed.
I have had my ups and downs during this process and this semester of school has been a little crazy, but I'm doing this! Many people don't realize the consistent struggle it is living with lymphedema. I was diagnosed with Primary Lymphedema when I was 16. Since then I have struggled with self-image issues, depression, and with the daily task of taking care of myself. Through these trials I have learned to appreciate all that I am capable of a lot more than I had previously. At the end of the day (well.. most days) I am glad I had the surgery because now I don't have to worry about the "What if?" The only real advantage to having had the surgery that I have felt thus far is the reduction of that tight, stiff skin. The swelling hasn't decreased like I had hoped, but I will be getting liposuction to take out the extra fat that the lymph fluid produces at the end of the year. I hope after that I will be able to see a positive difference. I think I would have to say.. If you are thinking about getting a lymph node transfer to improve your looks it probably isn't the best idea. Having all these scars and a big lump of neck tissue on your ankle attracts a lot of questions and staring people. To be honest I'm not completely used to it yet, but I'm getting there. I am also starting to become more comfortable in my body again. It has been hard this as summer has started because going out with family and friends in a bathing suit knowing people were going to stare was a little daunting , but it helps knowing that the people closest to me see me as a fighter not just a girl with weird, unproportional legs. Comments are closed.
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AuthorHi, my name is Sydney, and I have Primary Lymphedema. I created this blog to share my journey, and I hope that by sharing my story I can help those who are on a similar path. Archives
April 2017
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