Welcome to the online information resource and support group for those with lymphedema and for the family, friends, and therapists who care for them.

Are you new to Lymph Notes?

• To learn about the many features of this website, read Exploring Lymph Notes.
• To discover the interesting and educational articles on this website, go to the Lymph Notes Table of Contents. Then, just click on the article of your choice.
• If you looking for a special topic, use search box at the top of each page. To search the forum postings, use the Search function at the bottom of this page.
• If you are looking for the definition of lymphedema related term go to the Lymphedema Glossary and type in that term.
• To read the stories that accompany the photos in the upper right corner, just click on the photo that appears in that box.
• The article Finding Quality Lymphedema Treatment provides information on locating lymphedema therapists and facilities.
• To receive a free “Lymphedema Alert Wallet Card,” e-mail your name and mailing address to ann@lymphnotes.com.

Helpful Books from Lymph Notes

Lymphedema Caregiver’s Guide is the first book specifically for family, friends, and professionals who provide or arrange lymphedema home care. Written by Mary Kathleen Kearse, PT, CLT-LANA (an experienced lymphedema therapist) Elizabeth McMahon, PhD (a clinical psychologist) and Ann Ehrlich, MA (a professional medical writer).
This book covers all aspects of lymphedema home care including emotional support. For purchasing details, see Ordering Books.

Voices of Lymphedema is an exciting book written by patients, therapists, and others who know lymphedema best. As one of the enthusiastic reviewers described it, "This is a must read!" For more information and reviews (including those from the National Lymphedema Network (NLN), plus ordering information click here.

Living Well with Lymphedema by A. Ehrlich, A. Vinjé-Harrewijn PT, CLT-LANA, and E. McMahon PhD. “The most comprehensive lymphedema book on the market. Wonderful for patients and those at risk. So many sources tell lymphedema patients what they can’t do. This book encourages us in what we can do!" Tracy Novak

Overcoming the Emotional Challenges of Lymphedema by Elizabeth McMahon PhD. "Empowering and practical, with exercises the reader can jump right into and know they are taking steps to help themselves. I love the emphasis throughout the book that the patient is in control." Christine P. Thomas, MSPT, CLT-LANA. For details on Dr. McMahon’s speaking engagements click here to visit her website.

What is Happening?

Would you like to have your support group meeting, lymphedema related event,or news listed here? Making this happen is easy and cost free. For details. e-mail Ann at ann@lymphnotes.com.

• From May 29 to July 5, 2009, in Washington, DC, the 10th Artomatic Arts Festival will showcase the work of Artist Ishim (Deidree Bennett) a 35 year old mother, artist, and art gallery curator who also has primary lymphedema. Using her multitude of talents, Deidree is "giving back" and creating lymphedema awareness with the presentation of "her story."
• On Thursday August 13, 2009, from 5:30 to 7 PM, the quarterly meeting of the Lymphedema Educational Support Group, will be held at the Skyland Family Rehabilitation Center in Asheville, NC. All are welcome to attend and these meetings are free. This offers an opportunity to connect with others who have Lymphedema and to learn valuable information related to managing this condition. For directions, or questions. about the meeting telephone telephone 828-299-4636.
• On Sept. 22-26, 2010 , the 9th National Lymphedma Network International Conference for Healthcare Professionals will be held in Orlando, FL. For details about the meeting, go to the NLN meeting website.
• The planning committee for the NLN meeting requests that all lymphedema professionals help with planning by clicking on this planning survey link Planning Survey Link and taking this short survey. Your input will help us make this our very best Conference ever!
• To learn about the NLN LSAP program for patients at this meeting, click on the LSAP rotator photo in the upper right corner of the home page.
• The National Lymphedema Network (NLN) has issued updated position statements on Lymphedema Risk Reduction Practices,  Air Travel, and Exercise. These statements contain important information you will want to review.
• Learn more about The CRP Test and Lymphedema and how lymphedema can impact your results on this blood test.
• Click on Surprising Research to learn about new, and surprising,  lymphedema research conducted by Dr Stanley Rockson.
• The article Is there a Difference Between a CLT and a CLT? explains the difference between a lymphedema therapist who is a CLT or a CLT. There is also information about the educational background required to become a lymphatic decongestive therapist.
• We receive questions from members and visitors who are not sure they are receiving quality care. The article Is Your Lymphedema Treatment Helping? provides guidelines and suggestions as to what to do if faced with this dilemma.
• Striking Back at Superbugs provides helpful information on how to avoid potentially very serious superbug infections.