It’s June, lymphies! Can you believe it? This year is already halfway over; it’s amazing how quickly the months pass.

I wish I could be as excited about the summer as everyone else seems to be, but I’m already a little panicky. We’re right at the cusp of one of the most uncomfortable seasons for sufferers of lymphedema: the dreaded summertime, a season of increased swelling, awkward compression garments, and feeling self-conscious. Whoa, mama! That’s quite the trifecta.

I don’t mean to sound so negative; summer is a great season. I’m still learning, though, how to enjoy summertime without sacrificing my lymphedema care (something I do more often than I’d like to admit). I want my leg to be healthy.. but I also want to wear shorts and sundresses.. so where’s the balance?

I’m making a promise to myself and to all of you that I’ll be more consistent about taking care of my leg (and I hope you’ll do the same). This summer, I’m determined to wear my compression garment daily, fearlessly, without worrying about what other people may think or say about it. As for the short shorts and sundresses.. well, I’m making peace with the fact that it is what it is and instead of moping around, I’ve been slowly forming a new wardrobe of lymphie-friendly clothing that’s cool enough for the warm weather but will also help camouflage my compression garment. Maxi dresses, linen pants, wrap skirts.. they’re my new staples. I’ve even found some shoes that hide the stocking on top of my foot (peep-toe shoes are great for this!).

I’m trying to work with my lymphedema, instead of ignoring or obsessing over it – a happy, healthy medium! I’ll try to get some pictures of my clothes on here soon, but in the meantime, check out this post for tips on how to manage your lymphedema without compromising your summertime fun.

What are some things you do to beat the heat? How do you manage your lymphedema in the summer? Share your story in the comments section!