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For over a decade, I struggled with severe swelling in my legs, ankles, and feet. From 2021 to 2023, the swelling became so severe that I could only wear slippers, and tying sneakers was impossible. Despite trying different medications and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, nothing seemed to help. In 2023, I was finally diagnosed with Lymphedema and Lipedema after being referred to a vascular surgeon. This diagnosis brought some relief, but it also marked the beginning of a long and challenging journey.
I began daily physical therapy, which included wrapping my legs and receiving Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). The MLD was successful in that a liter of lymphatic fluid no longer was weighing each of my legs down. I could walk easier and get in and out of the shower easier. Over time, I transitioned to using a pneumatic pump and wearing custom compression stockings. While some of these treatments were covered by insurance, my husband and I still faced thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses. We managed to pay for these costs, but it was a struggle, especially since I was unable to work for several months during treatment.
Now, after nearly two years of consistent therapy, my Lymphedema has improved, but the Lipedema remains. This condition causes constant pain, heaviness, and limited mobility, making daily life difficult. The only option for relief is surgery, which must be performed out of state by a specialist. We will travel from Vermont to New Jersey to have the surgery performed. While insurance will cover most of the surgery, we are responsible for travel, lodging, pre-surgery supplements, and post-surgery care. My husband will be by my side throughout, and each surgery will require both of us to take time off work. This is the first of up to three surgeries over the next 18 months, each with significant additional costs. Our hope is that, starting with the first surgery, I will regain my mobility, participate in social events, and pursue new opportunities in my career. We are working hard to save, but any support will help us move forward toward a better quality of life for the next twenty to forty years. Thank you for considering supporting our journey.
I began daily physical therapy, which included wrapping my legs and receiving Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). The MLD was successful in that a liter of lymphatic fluid no longer was weighing each of my legs down. I could walk easier and get in and out of the shower easier. Over time, I transitioned to using a pneumatic pump and wearing custom compression stockings. While some of these treatments were covered by insurance, my husband and I still faced thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses. We managed to pay for these costs, but it was a struggle, especially since I was unable to work for several months during treatment.
Now, after nearly two years of consistent therapy, my Lymphedema has improved, but the Lipedema remains. This condition causes constant pain, heaviness, and limited mobility, making daily life difficult. The only option for relief is surgery, which must be performed out of state by a specialist. We will travel from Vermont to New Jersey to have the surgery performed. While insurance will cover most of the surgery, we are responsible for travel, lodging, pre-surgery supplements, and post-surgery care. My husband will be by my side throughout, and each surgery will require both of us to take time off work. This is the first of up to three surgeries over the next 18 months, each with significant additional costs. Our hope is that, starting with the first surgery, I will regain my mobility, participate in social events, and pursue new opportunities in my career. We are working hard to save, but any support will help us move forward toward a better quality of life for the next twenty to forty years. Thank you for considering supporting our journey.