Lymphedema

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Yet another term we hadn't heard before all this started. Basically persistent swelling resulting from having lymph nodes removed.

Karen got in to see the lymphedema clinic on Friday after much confusion between the doctor and the hospital. As it turns out, she has a touch of it in her left arm, something she will keep the rest of her life. They have given her exercises to manage it, as well as some to get back her range of motion. She will need a pressure sleeve to exercise and fly, but should be able to resume both once everything is done. On the positive side, her range of motion is good.

She has a few more appointments with the clinic and the physical therapist scheduled around how she feels over the next few weeks. I get to go with her to the next one to learn some massages to help manage it as well.

Chemo starts tomorrow and with it likely comes more terms to which we will become introduced.

More as we learn it.

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