In Control Now

[outofcontrol]

Okay, maybe it is not completely in control, but, my Lymphedema seems to be getting a bit better and I noticed that there are days when my upper thighs hurt so bad that it is almost unbearable, especially when the weather is changing. But, for the most part, with my compression socks, my legs do not hurt. I am very glad of that.
I have also been on a diet and have been able to lose some weight. Since the end of November of 2005, i have lost 36 pounds. Does not seem like a lot, but, at least it is something. I am thinking that with each five or ten pouinds lost, my legs are feeling better and better. Anyhow this is for those who seem like things do not get better with this disease, but, they will with some work. I may not ever be completely over this, but I am so much better off than I was just a few months ago that I have no complaints to speak of.
Just wanted everyone to know
Have a wonderfull 4th of July!
Anna

[dbaird]

Thank you for the update! Congratulations on the 36 lbs, that is a great accomplishment.

It is good to know this, it really gives me the incentive to lose weight.

Thanks much and keep up the good work.

[outofcontrol]

There were days in this adventure that I just wanted to give up, eat myself into oblivion and say "Forget it! It's just too hard!"
But, I didn't give up and I am still continuing to try. The Lymphedema thing is just too much and I guess it will be a constant battle I will have for the rest of my life.
But, with everyones support and the love of my family and friends I will continue.
Thanks for the encouragement too. It means a lot to me.
Anna

[dbaird]

Anna, you are very welcome for the encouragement. I needed to hear your story, I really need to lose a good 20 lbs.

I hate to think this is a battle but it really is, and I need to win it.

We are so blessed to have the support from our family and friends. Not everyone does and that is so sad. I read stories where husbands are not being supportive, that breaks my heart because when a persons husband is unsupportive, it makes an even greater battle.

Again keep up the good work!

God Bless, Denise

[caminomontero]

Hi, My name is Millie. I have right leg lymphedema after surgery and radiation for about 10 years now. Its undercontrol but not enough. I am active and exercise regularly, however, I'm so self-conscious about how I look. My family and friends try to convince me in going to the pool, but I find it so difficult. I wish I can let the fear go. The fear of having people watch me and talk about me. I'm surprise that after so many years I still find it hard to cope.

[outofcontrol]

My weight goes up and down a lot and of course with that comes the fact that the swelling goes up and down too. I did lose the 36 pounds and so far have crept back up about 15 pounds. I really wish it was easier than having to follow a diet and excercise the rest of my life, but, it looks like that is what is going to happen. I am fortunate in the fact that my boyfriend bought me a 18' x 4' easy set swim pool and then with the help of a neighbor built a deck so that the ladder(a heavy duty white one not the one that came with the pool) would not move around on me, I can swim even if it is in a circle. I do squats and do leg lifts. If I can get into the pool every night I feel better....but, I have a lot of work to do and so the battle continues and I will do anything I can to encourage anyone with Lyphedema. Just contact me and I will be there to encourage you. Your friend Anna

[caminomontero]

Hi Anna, Thank you for your support. This is all new to me and I'm sorry I didn't look for this kind of help before. I know that I will find the support and strength I need in my struggle with lymphedema with people who understands what I'm going thru and who are willing to listen. It just makes it easier to deal with. Now, if I could only find the courage to get into that public pool.