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Steps Into Treatment: IPCT One / Four Today marked the beginning of my two-week intermittent pneumatic compression therapy (IPCT) treatment. Leading up to the appointment, I was feeling a mix of nerves and anticipation. This was the first active treatment I’d received beyond wearing compression garments so I wasn’t sure what to expect. Before the session, I performed a full simple lymphatic drainage (SLD) massage, as recommended. Once at the clinic, the treatment began with a

The Strength Behind Me: Family & Friends Throughout the diagnostic process, the support I’ve received from my friends and family has been nothing short of incredible. In every low moment, in every wave of doubt, they’ve reminded me of my strength, helped me see the positives and encouraged me to love myself exactly as I am. What’s meant just as much is the kindness I’ve experienced from new people. Whether it’s been on nights out, at university, in new jobs or simply those wh

Beyond the Diagnosis: Building a Future with Lymphoedema After the most thorough and informative consultation I’ve had so far, I’m finally starting to feel optimistic about the direction of my treatment. Following months of self-management and no medical appointments, this session offered clarity, reassurance and a much-needed sense of progress. For the first time, I now have a detailed understanding of my condition, tailored specifically to my case. I’ve been taught how to p

As I begin this blog, I find myself at the two-year anniversary of my official diagnosis. Only now am I starting to receive consistent, effective treatment for the swelling and all that comes with living with this condition. I’m now under the care of a lymphoedema specialist at the Clatterbridge Lymphoedema Centre, part of a cancer hospital in the Wirral, who I visit every 6 months. It was here, for the first time, that I received a comprehensive explanation of what lymphoede

My Lymphoedema Journey: How It All Began As this is my first post, I want to share how my journey with lymphoedema first began. In February 2017, I was training at a performing arts college in Liverpool, working toward a Diploma in Dance. Alongside my studies, I was rehearsing for various stage shows with different companies and living a healthy, active lifestyle. One day during a dance class, I noticed sudden and unusual swelling in a few inches of my right ankle. I was imme