I am the chairperson of the Israeli Lymphedema Association and am a lymphedema patient from 1990. On a daily basis, my treatment includes lymphatic massage by a licensed therapist, exercise, self- massage, walking, occasional use of lympha-press, and skin care with special creams in order to prevent infection. On the Association's open phone line, I try to guide patients regarding the alternatives for care and treatment, and to be a good listener, encouraging them to live a balanced life with lymphedema. I established a support group for primary lymphedema patients with 100 members, together with a lymphatic massage specialist. The group is very supportive and active, including on Facebook.

Although I was born and raised in the United States, I have lived in Israel for my entire adult life and work here as a translator. In 1984 and 1989 I underwent right and left mastectomies, after which I developed lymphedema in both arms and hands. With encouragement and tremendous help from my wonderful lymphatic massage therapist, and excellent medical care, I am able to maintain a healthy active life style, including double breast reconstruction.