In 2020, the ALA campaign for Lymphoedema Awareness Month focussed attention on knowing the signs of lymphoedema. Accredited Practitioners know only too well that many people do not have their lymphoedema diagnosed for some time, which can lead to the condition becoming quite advanced as well as having increased infections and other complications as a result. In 2021, in addition to material to support knowing the signs of lymphoedema, the message will include 'Early Intervention'.
With early diagnosis, assessment, intervention and treatment, this chronic condition can be more easily managed and the quality of life improved.
Supporting Material including a Lymphoedema Awareness Month - download links below
The ALA has sent out posters and pamphlets to medical centres, particularly cancer centres, where there are patients who may be at an increased risk of developing lymphoedema, and for whom early monitoring is essential.
If you would like to receive copies of the poster or pamphlets, please email execofficer@lymphoedema.org.au indicating how many, and they will be sent out to your clinic free of charge.
ALA Members will receive a poster in their February edition of Lymph Exchange which you should receive any day now!
Download material:
A3 Poster Early intervention is key
A5 Pamphlet Know the early warning wigns
Facebook Banner March is Lymphoedema Awareness Month
Screen Saver - Early Intervention is Key
Email Signature Banner - Lymphoedema: Early Intervention is key
As is done every year, the ALA will host a free member webinar on World Lymphoedema Day - Saturday 6 March. This year, the webinar will be on supporting Lymphoedema patients via telehealth. Further information can be found here.
As the ALA advocates in the 2019 position paper on the early detection of breast cancer-related lymphoedema (here) - education, early assessment and intervention for lymphoedema will lead to better outcomes for the patient.
During the 2020 Lymphoedema Awareness Month Campaign, we shared stories of those who live with, or work with lymphoedema.
ALA member, Sarah, who you may have seen waving the lymphoedema flag on ABC's Hard Quiz has now been interviewed by ABC Central Victoria radio informing listeners about lymphoedema during lymphoedema awareness month. Click on the image below to hear her interview.
Fiona Parker, ABC Radio (left) and Sarah Gill, ALA Accredited Lymphoedema Practitioner (right)
# Support the ALA's campaign to Put lymphoedema on the list
For more information on the Put lymphoedema on the list campaign, click HERE
Organise a lymphoedema get together with support groups, patients, workplaces and local treatment centres. Host an event that provides opportunities for practitioners and carers and patients to share their stories, make sure you take lots of photos.
Some ideas for your event might include:
After your event don’t forget to:
Research to find local media, draw up a list of the media outlets you want to target and find the most relevant contact:
If you are going to invite the media to your event, think about a hook, make sure the story that you are going to tell grabs the journalist’s attention and reinforce the photo opportunity i.e. a room full of people on pumps, a yoga session with everyone in light blue. Contact the media outlets before you want them to publish and follow up your initial email with a phone call.
Money raised will be used to support our research endeavours - please download and complete this form to remit donations.
The Australasian Lymphology Association (ALA) is committed to promoting the development of lymphology in Australasia. The Association will strive to improve the management of those with, or at risk of developing lymphoedema and enhance communication between health professionals, educators, relevant authorities and government in regard to oedemas and lymphoedema.
