Lymphoedema And A Couple Of Marathons
Always wanted to take part in a fitness event but keep finding every excuse not to? Jess' story might be just the inspiration you need.
Sometimes life throws us things that are not part of the plans we have for ourselves. My name is Jess and I’m 35 years of age. I have primary Lymphoedema in both legs and my trunk. Lymphoedema is the accumulation of protein-rich fluid resulting in the swelling of regions of the body. Essentially it’s a mechanical failure of the lymphatic system and affects the circulation of fluid around the body. This commonly happens in cancer patients after lymph nodes are taken out from surgery, but for me, I just have it. Solid heavy legs that struggle to reduce in weight and size.
Since being diagnosed I have conquered The Great Ocean Road Marathon 2015, The Australian Outback Marathon 2017 and 6 half marathons. Setting out to achieve the marathon distance was never about a finish time but about achieving a dream, conquering the odds and crossing that line on my own two feet in the healthiest way possible. Both times I finished the marathon with nothing left in the tank other than sheer joy and complete exhilaration. These achievements have shown me that I am grateful for my health and that our biggest limitation is our mind. A healthy habit of turning up to training each week can change the mental headspace instantly. A vicious cycle of ‘I can’t’ is soon turned into ‘I will give it a try’. Coupled with careful training, that’s how a marathon dream for a runner with lymph legs is conquered!
I use the lymphoedema to fuel my drive to be the healthiest I can be. I train most days of the week, sit on a circulation pump for an hour each day, eat a restricted diet of no wheat, gluten or dairy, wear strong compression garments on both legs every day and carefully balance stress and rest. Sometimes this routine can be VERY overwhelming, but it works to maintain my health. Careful training can actually improve fluid movement and promote a healthier lymphatic system, so over the years I have worked out which activities are the best for my body. Squats of any kind are my very best friend!!!! I love running, but sometimes running doesn’t love me, so I use run/walk segments. My running buddies are an incredibly encouraging group of people and when they are going out and I’m not well enough to run, I take my bike. This way we can still train together and have coffee afterwards!!! I really enjoy meeting my PT each week for strength training and going to my group running class. Training has now become a lifestyle and doing it with others makes it motivating and fun!
I encourage you to embrace a challenge that you didn’t think was possible and set a realistic goal to achieve it. Train your mind to know you can do it and surround yourself with likeminded buddies who will encourage you every step of the way. The only one who can make it happen is you!
By Jess Van Ree
ANGIE BLACK
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