"Thank you for giving me my legs back"
11 September, 2014
National Lymphoedema Awareness Week takes place from 15th to 22nd September, with the aim of raising awareness of the condition which affects over 200,000 people in the UK and Ireland.
Lymphoedema is a chronic, progressive condition which can result in severely swollen and distorted limbs, toughening of the skin and leakage of lymph fluid through the skin, although usually affecting the limbs the condition can be found on other areas of the body
Since April 2013 City Health Care Partnership CIC (CHCP CIC) has provided a non-cancer lymphoedema service in Hull. Before this service patients previously had to wait several years or travel out of the area to understand and get help for their condition.
Debbie Allanson, Clinical Lead Specialist Nurse for the service has said “There are a number of causes for lymphoedema, including trauma, infection, reduced mobility and obesity. If anyone notices any unexplained swelling which doesn’t resolve, they should see there GP who can refer them into the CHCP Non Cancer Lymphoedema Service.
"When somebody is referred into our service they will get an assessment, treatment and a plan to manage the swelling to improve quality of life.”
One patient has said, “An excellent service that has really made a difference to my life, for the first time in months I am able to get a pair of shoes on my feet and go out.”
With another saying, “Thank you very, very much for all of your care and attention and for giving me my legs back.”
The British Lymphology Society has advice and guidance for both the public and health care professionals on their website: www.thebls.com. The Lymphoedema Support Network is also available to offer support and advice to people living with lymphoedema: www.lymphoedema.org.
