Taking A Shot at Breast Cancer donates to local cancer patients

Lymphedema, inflammation caused by an accumulation of fluid, is a condition that may occur after breast cancer surgery when lymph nodes are removed. Lymphedema can occur months or years after treatment. It’s a chronic (ongoing) condition that has no cure. However, steps can be taken to prevent it and to reduce or relieve symptoms.

For breast cancer patients with lymphedema, the gold standard treatment approach includes skin care, compression with bandaging or garments, manual lymph drainage, massage, and exercise. Bandaging involves creating a soft cast on the effected body part by wrapping it with multiple layers and in a very specific sequence. Unfortunately, the bandaging and compression materials are costly and are not covered by most insurance plans, causing more unforeseen costs to patients.

The local non-profit, Taking a Shot at Breast Cancer, is changing all of that for breast cancer patients at McLaren Port Huron who are treating for lymphedema. The non-profit recently donated $10,000 to supply breast cancer patients with these necessary materials so they do not have to be concerned with the costs and can focus on healing.

McLaren Port Huron offers lymphedema treatment at both our Port Huron Outpatient Physical Therapy location and at the hospital. The program is staffed by two physical therapists who are both certified lymphedema therapists. If interested in information about this program, please contact McLaren Port Huron Physical Therapy at 810-385-5531 or visit www.mclaren.org/phpt.

We are grateful for Taking a Shot at Breast Cancer and appreciate their dedication to making a difference in the health and lives of our breast cancer patients.