About the Northwest Lymphedema Center
Many years ago a lymphedema patient who had benefited from Decongestive Lymphedema Therapy (Manual Lymphatic Drainage) and her European trained therapist recognized the need for an educational program. The medical community was oblivious to treatment options, other than pumps and compression sleeves. Insurance companies, for the most part, were unwilling to admit there was treatment of any kind. For those struggling with this condition, there was little hope of getting better or even controlling their lymphedema.
The patient was Jane Gordon, who also happened to work for a major insurance company. She and her father prepared all of the forms and applied for 501 C 3 non-profit corporation status with the IRS. As of September 30, 1993, the Northwest Lymphedema Center became a reality; a full-fledged information and resource center for lymphedema patients and their families.
Since that time the NWLC has sponsored a monthly support group, held four annual fund-raisers, produced three self-care videos, and has offered patient self-care classes for the last 15 years. The Center survives on tax deductible donations, profits from the sale of compression garments, and membership dues. A one hundred dollar donation is suggested for the six hour class, but not required. Lynn Fass, RN, a therapist and a lymphedema patient herself, volunteers her time every Wednesday to answer phone calls and do personal consultations. She and JoAnn Rovig, CLT-LANA, NTP, Jane's therapist, donate their time to teach the quartely self-care class. In order to include exercise and nutrition into the program, the class was recently expanded to six hours. JoAnn is a Certified LeBed Method® exercise instructor and a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner.
It is essential that anyone struggling with lymphedema has access to good information. It is only through the patient's own involvement and understanding that successful management is possible. Every patient needs to believe they can get better. The lymphatic system will remodel. Yes, there are patients who no longer find it necessary to bandage, use a pump, wear night wraps or even wear daytime compress. Self-Care videos are still available and you are always welcome to attend the Self-Care class. We are close to the Seattle-Tacoma Airport, and there are several inexpensive places to stay close by.
Our mission is "helping others understand and meet the challenges of lymphedema." Your questions are vital to this process. Since we are not always on site, we suggest that you contact us via email: info@nwlymphedemacenter.org and we will get back to you as quickly as possible.