The Association of Volunteers for the Assistance of Oncological Patients Venice (AVAPO) first learned of LE&RN during a presentation by its Spokesperson, Kathy Bates, an Academy Award-winning actress and cancer survivor, who shared her experience living with lymphedema (LE). Driven by supporting cancer-related lymphedema research, AVAPO reached out to LE&RN. LE&RN introduced AVAPO to Dr. Lorenzo Ricolfi, Co-Chair of LE&RN’s Italy Chapter, ultimately leading to the funding opportunity for a one-year research project titled Lymphatic Diseases in Oncologic Patients: Prevention, Early Diagnosis, and Treatment Options. On January 16, 2023, the research began at the University of Siena under the guidance of Professor Gabriele Guido and Professor Gennaro Paolo. 

Since the project's initiation, AVAPO has implemented outpatient care services for individuals with cancer-related LE, primary LE, and lipedema, aiming for early diagnosis and comprehensive prevention measures. The prevention efforts encompass primary prevention to avoid LE development, secondary prevention to prevent LE exacerbation, and tertiary prevention to avoid complications. These measures leverage clinical and surgical knowledge to enhance patients' quality of life.

AVAPO was founded 35 years ago by volunteers dedicated to serving people living with cancer and their families in the territory of the Venetian lagoon. With a team of over 100 volunteers, AVAPO supports various services, including the breast cancer and palliative care unit at Venice Hospital, rehabilitation gym, Qigong, home healthcare, hospice, and psychological assistance. AVAPO is a member of the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO).

LE&RN sincerely appreciates AVAPO’s generous support and looks forward to the positive impact of this research project on the lymphatic community thanks to the dedication of Dr. Ricolfi, Professor Gabriele Guido, and Professor Gennaro Paolo.