Hello Cactusqueen,
I have stage 3 lymphedema in my left arm, caused by radiation, surgery and all things that go along with cancer treatment damage. I have been doing therapy for 17 months and just this past Mon had my first breakthrough. My arm actually reduced by 60 points which allows me to go to the next treatment level, a debulking procedure. Liposuction. Therapy will be an ongoing process which includes manual lymphatic drainage massage and long term bandaging. 12 to 18 months later the surgeon will evaluate for a lymph node bypass and a transplant…. Very exciting. It has taken a very long time to get to this point which I understand is not unheard of but unusual. Persistence, dedication and a good therapist is key…. And of course prayer. Happy to speak with you more especially after my procedure.

Hi Colleen,
Thank you for tagging those members.

I have lymphedema in my abdomen but mostly pools in my pelvis. I've had it for about 10 years and by now it's a stage 3-4. My surgery is tentative for end of December. I'm waiting for my doctor to come back from vacation to go over a more concrete surgery plan. It's been so hard to get anybody in my area to help me and I'm so happy Mayo accepted me. It's been a whirlwind of doctors and appointments.