Survivor Profile - Nancy Edwards
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During Nancy's visit in the Survivorship Program's clinic, she discussed with the nurse practitioner many of her concerns related to cancer survivorship. Once such concern was lymphedema, which Nancy had learned to live with and accept. As a result of her appointment in the Survivorship Program, Nancy received a referral to a physical therapist who specializes in treating lymphedema. With advice from the physical therapist, Nancy is now not only treating her lymphedema but also practicing strategies to prevent it from recurring.
"While I was in my treatment phase the word 'lymphedema' was never mentioned, Edwards said. "When I was advised recently as part of my appointment with the Survivorship Program that if I didn't take care of the lymphedema I could risk permanent problems such as lack of mobility, I made an appointment right away. A friend who is a recent breast cancer patient was educated about lymphedema prevention when she finished treatment; it's good to know that now it is a recognized part of breast cancer care. I just wish it had been 17 years ago."
During her appointment, Nancy was also able to discuss concerns about her future risk of breast and ovarian cancer, as well as her adult daughters' risk of developing these cancers. As her daughters near the age at which she was diagnosed, Nancy wants more information about their risk of developing breast cancer. As a result, she was referred for genetic counseling at the University of Washington Medical Genetics Clinic.
Now, Nancy has the peace of mind that she is doing all that she can to empower herself and her family to be as well as possible!
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