Plainfield Woman Finds Compassionate Lymphedema Care at Silver Cross

Laurie Ramsey was diagnosed with lymphedema after breaking her ankle in 2000 and was confronted with the possibility of it again earlier this year, after having a mastectomy. 

Being a nurse, she knew lymphedema was a chronic condition, but was unaware that therapy could help prevent lymphedema from progressing. 

She worked at the former Silver Cross Hospital in Joliet years ago but was not very familiar with the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab.

What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is an abnormal collection of lymphatic fluid in the tissue just beneath the skin. This swelling commonly occurs in the arm or leg, but it may also occur in other body areas including the breast, chest, head and neck, and genitals. 

Lymphedema develops when a body region (for example, in the case of breast cancer surgery) where lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes are removed or impaired, becomes overloaded with lymphatic fluid. 

“It’s a lifelong condition,” said Ramsey, 65, of Plainfield. “And back then, it was difficult to find treatment. But I still wear compression socks and garments every day.” 

After discovering she had cancer in her left breast following a routine mammogram last fall, Ramsey decided to have a mastectomy in November. 

She was surprised when her doctor earlier this year referred her to the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab at Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox for a lymphedema evaluation. 

“I wasn’t even thinking about the possibility of lymphedema,” she said. “But I was able to get 10 treatments at the AbilityLab.” 

Ultimately, Ramsey began working with Beth Leonard, PT, CLT, one of four therapists at Silver Cross who work with patients with lymphedema. 

“Unfortunately, there really is no cure for lymphedema, but we’re hoping treatment and exercises will help prevent it from progressing,” Leonard said. 

Lymphedema Therapy

The first part of therapy is helping the patient regain their range of motion in the area operated on, in this case, allowing Ramsey to be able to raise her arm above her head again. 

“The second part is working on regaining strength in the arm and shoulder,” Leonard said. “We have exercises for them to do here and at home. The more they do their homework, the faster they can regain better motion. 

“We also work on educating the patient in self-massage and lymphedema risk reduction practices.” 

Leonard said Ramsey was “very sweet” and a good student, doing all her assigned exercises at

home. Ramsey said she has pretty much the same range of motion now as before the surgery. 

“Beth was incredibly compassionate and kind, treating me with dignity and respect throughout my treatment. She took the time to answer all my questions and provided valuable information about lymphedema. 

“Beth’s expertise was evident, and she helped me make significant improvements in both my range of motion and swelling in my arm. Since lymphedema is a lifelong condition, it’s reassuring to know that quality care is available nearby.” 

Leonard hopes more people become aware of the lymphedema therapy available at Silver Cross. Many patients are unaware of treatment options for lymphedema care and don’t know where to turn for help. 

“We had a program on lymphedema here last year, and oh, my gosh, we had nearly 100 people show up,” Leonard said. “They would say, ‘I didn’t know treatment was available for this.’ 

“Someone who has, or thinks they have lymphedema should get checked out as soon as possible. It is best to treat lymphedema in the earlier stages to prevent it from progressing.” 

Ramsey is glad she found Leonard and Silver Cross. 

“Currently, there are no signs of lymphedema in my arm. Beth took measurements at my last visit as a baseline. She said if I notice any swelling or pain, to get a referral from my doctor and come back and they can remeasure to evaluate. 

“And I know I’ll get good care at Silver Cross. Everyone there was so wonderful.” 

To learn more about lymphedema care at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab at Silver Cross Hospital, visit silvercross.org