Cancer Related Lymphoedema is a major area of concern for many Cancer Survivors. Peer support for Cancer Survivors is an important component of living the “new normal” positively. Our consumer led group, the Lymphoedema Support Group of South Australia (LSGSA) is committed to providing education, information and advocacy to anyone at risk or living with the condition in the state.
The current situation for Lymphoedema patients in South Australia is dire: there is a lack of clear referral pathways, limited availability for assessment and treatment clinics and financial support (government subsidies) for compression garments is lacking.
There appears to be confusion within the medical fraternity regarding appropriate Lymphoedema management procedures leading to too many consumers being given misinformation, misdiagnosis and inadequate treatment. Consumers can become overwhelmed as to how best to manage their condition in the early stages. This leads to a worsening of the condition, heightened risk of developing associated illnesses and negative psychosocial impacts on the individual.
In response to many concerns raised by consumers and therapists alike through our network, we endeavoured to plug this gap. The LSGSA collaborated with accredited Lymphoedema therapists, Breast Care nurses and Lymphoedema researchers to hold a "Breast Cancer Related Lymphoedema Information and Awareness" day in Feb 2016. Attended by both consumers and therapists from city and country areas, it was a great success!
The LSGSA plans to be more inclusive of all cancer related Lymphoedema patients with our programme planning sessions in 2017. Themed information and awareness events highlight the way consumer led, medical practitioner supported education programmes combined with peer support can positively impact the daily challenges of cancer survivors.