As is the case with many breast cancer survivors, Kathryn found her treatment to be easier than her long-term recovery.  Diagnosed with stage II breast cancer in November 2000, Kathryn underwent a lumpectomy, during which she also had all lymph nodes on the affected side removed.  This procedure was followed by both chemo and radiation therapy. 

Though Kathryn was made aware that her lumpectomy and lymph node removal would increase her chance of survival and decrease the likelihood of recurrence, she was never informed of her high risk for developing lymphedema.  Breast cancer patients are often afflicted with this irreversible condition due to the removal of lymph nodes from their underarm areas.  Removal of these nodes prevents normal circulation of lymph fluid throughout the body and can result in pooling of fluid in the arm, thus causing swelling that can also be accompanied by aching or numbness. 

In Kathryn’s case, this condition did not manifest until nearly two years after her surgery, and may have been induced by a normally insignificant event, such as an insect bite on her arm.  Unaware of her risk for lymphedema, Kathryn continued to wear jewelry on her affected hand, as well as to fly – two avoidable practices that could have reduced the acuity of her condition.  When the swelling in her arm increased to an intolerable level, Kathryn sought medical advice and learned what she should have known about lymphedema before entering surgery.

While lymphedema cannot be cured, Kathryn has greatly improved her condition through complementary therapies including acupuncture, chiropractic care, acupressure, Chinese herbs, and lymph massage.  She also wears a compression sleeve while flying and wraps her arm at night.  Though the effects of lymphedma have been significantly reduced, Kathryn wishes she had been made aware of her risk for developing this condition so that she may have prevented its occurrence altogether.

In addition to caring for herself, Kathryn also dedicates her time to social work, where she says her life-changing illness has enabled her to bring more empathy and information to others.  She also applies her nurturing spirit as a mother, and participates in community service with her daughter.  Although helping others is a natural tendency for Kathryn, allowing others to help her has been something she has had to ease into.  Though challenging in the beginning, Kathryn now attests that at she has never known another time in life when it was so clear how many people were truly there for her.  With all that she gives, it seems the cyclic nature of life recognizes this selfless generosity and returns the love and compassion that has and will continue to keep her healthy and strong.

For more information on one of Kathryn’s current service endeavors, please visit: http://www.shawlministry.com/