What does the term "self-care" mean to you? Getting a luxurious facial? A long bath with a good book?
 
According to the WHO, true self-care is the daily, deliberate effort to support one's own health across physical, mental, and social dimensions. 
 
For the millions of people globally who live with chronic diseases such as lymphoedema, this 24/7 approach isn't just a wellness trend, it is the essential foundation of health.

To acknowledge this day Riverside Massage is hosting a self-care event on lymphoedema (inc. lipoedema) .
Date 24th July

Time 10am -1pm
 ValAnne Community room   BYO CHAIR
between Flow 32 café and Taffy’s Bunbury
RSVP as numbers are limited to 0427202129 Robyn
Come and get information- new or get updated on self -care for a healthy lymphoedema from qualified lymphoedema therapists. Topics include lymphoedema, latest research, self- drainage, Taping, nutrition, “lymph tool kit”, meet Ayden from Medirent who will discuss pumps, Ellen form Jobst with garments, listen to a personal story, try a vibration plate, potentially become part of a support group


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The 2025 campaign focusses on: " Do you know?"

• Small wounds can need an early medical review where there is lymphoedema
• Compression garments can prevent cellulitis recurrence
• Skin care is a key component to all types of lymphoedema management
• There are many types of compression garments that can be fitted to every part of the body
• Toes and fingers can often be a source of infection on a person with lymphoedema
• There are many aids that can help a person put compression garments on and off

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Lipoedema is a painful disorder of fat metabolism, usually inherited, affecting 9.5% of women.  The buildup of fat compromises the lymphatics.  tends to worsen during hormonal fluctuations- puberty, pregnancy, menopause. Can't be dieted or exercised away. Can interfere with walking, daily living.​  Can be treated with liposuction surgery- 99.9% not Medicare rebate able. 
 Goals of care and treatment include:

• managing pain
• stabilising weight
• improving lymph flow- lymph drainage and compression
• decreasing inflammation
• helping the body deal with the lipoedema
• emotional support

https://www.lipoedema.org.au/about-lipoedema 

Lymphoedema awareness- there is minimal in the wider community. How, if there is a lack of knowledge amongst our friends, family, peers, colleagues. How do you get support if lymphoedema is not acknowledged? No Medicare item number , lack of therapists. Ministers- how do we get this in the know????  WRITE to your local MP's  get the word out  ​https://www.lymphaustralia.org.au/events/raising-awareness-campaign/mp-letters-/   . I've written mine- now it's up to you! Those who have been affected by lymphoedema - the individual/family/friends. WRITE WRITE WRITE