Submitted by Donna S., August 2012.
I am 34 years old and 2 1/2 years ago my left leg started to swell. I was and still am a keen fitness fanatic and was always self conscious about my weight even though I was a size 10. At the time I was single.
I went to the doctors several times about it and I was told that it was just a sprain and was put on a course of directics. It wasn’t until around 8 months later and several vists to my GP that I was referred for numerous tests. I was finally diagnosed in January 2010.
The day before my final diagnosis I had met a lovely man and then finding out that I had Primary Lymphoedema I felt like my world had ended. How would this man love me if he were to find out? After getting to know him I decided a week later to tell him. Well we are now living together and have a 10 month old gorgeous little boy called George.
I have my good days and bad days, days when I feel “why me?” and when my leg is at its worse I feel moody and tearful. Chris always says never look on the negative but look at the positives and to be honest I feel almost glad this has happened to me. I am not self centred anymore or obsessed about my weight…. Life is for the living, so long as I can walk I’m grateful. My left leg is slightly bigger than the right BUT it’s my leg, part of who I am and I still love it. I still have bad days but my family get me through …. Chris, my baby George and my lovely mum and dad and I love them all x
Submit your story to the Lymphie Life! Use the contact form here to share your personal story of living with lymphedema, and, with your permission, it’ll be posted on the website.
Donna, thanks for sharing your story. What was it like being pregnant with Lymphedema? Did you have any complications? I considering starting a family soon and I’d like to be prepared as I can be. Thanks!
Sorry Rosie I didn’t see this question.
My lymphoedema wasn’t too bad when pregnant. My leg was more swollen but I continued to wear my compression stocking everyday. After my boy was born, I continued to exercise and do my massaging, my leg gradually went down. My advice would be to start a family, there’s no better feeling but just continue to look after yourself. Good luck x
Let me know how you get on x
This is encouraging . I am a female aged 32 , I have been living with lympedema since I was 16. I can relate to your emotions. I have had my bad days too, I just lock my door sometimes and cry. The fear for the future kicks in, the emotional pain has been enormous.
I too would like to have a baby one day. I command you for falling in love because everyone deserves to be loved. I am so scared to fall in love. I once told a guy about my condition but he never called back.
I am considered as a weirdo for not dating and having a child at 32 , but people don’t know my problem . I am especially sad at social events.
You just encouraged that you successfully had a baby :-). I would like to have a baby one day.
dgf
Anna, never despair! I am now the proud mother of two boys. I’m managing to control my leg swelling. I hope you are okay x