“I have Lymphedema in both of my legs – for 26 years in my left leg, and 9 years in my right leg. At the same thing that I developed Lymphedema, my dad died. Having Lymphedema can certainly be difficult at times, but, I think it can make us stronger individuals. Yes, we can be happy and live satisfying and rich lives. I used to use my Lymphedema and the death of my father as a crutch, but after completing a triathlon (at my pace) in 2009, I know that I can do anything that I set my mind to – I may just have to work at it awhile.
2011 was a big year for me. Not only did I complete my Bachelor’s Degree in Labor Studies from the National Labor College, get published in an upcoming book about Lymphedema to raise funds for patients with Lymphedema who need help to get garments (for more info: http://lighthouselymphedema.org/Home.htm), and relocate to Brooklyn, NY, I was married on October 1, 2011 to my best friend and long-term partner, Doug. We haven’t gone on our honeymoon yet, but, we hope to go someplace far away like, Japan. I enjoy doing yoga and I recently started volunteering in a Child Life Unit at the hospital where I was born in Brooklyn, NY.
Giving back by playing and creating art with children who are sick is rewarding. I get back so much more than the few hours I put in each week. Plus, I’m considering a career change from what I currently do now – office work, to become a Child Life Specialist. That would mean going to Grad School, which is what I’m considering for the near future. Another dream for the future is to start a Lymphedema Support Group in New York City.”
October 2011