AQL EXPRESS EN JUNE 2024

Be visible to people living with lymphedema and their caregivers

TARGET population = OVER 241 000 people in Québec LAQ promotes DLT and RAMQ program

Only the LAQ informs the public and HP about lymphedema

The LAQ educates patients so that they adhere to their treatments.

Take advantage of all our visibility tools. Become a sponsor and corporate member of the LAQ.

Advertising in L'info AQL and L'AQL Express

Website with interactive map

Social media

ProLymph: the network of professionals

Lymphedema Guide

Sponsored presentations and webinars

Raise awareness of your lymphedema resources in Québec.

LAQ: Time to reflect BY YOU and FOR YOU! THE LAQ

delivered the expected results and more! Now, more than

cy and compassion. We owe this, without question, to the

them, we have undergone major transformations, negotiated tight curves and propelled ourselves into the future with record results, new confidence and even stronger foundations. In the face of growing needs, unforeseen organizational challenges and pressures on our healthcare system, our volunteers, administrators, managers, professional and corporate members and donors have shown unwavering determination. By joining forces, the LAQ’s volunteers, administrators, managers, professional and corporate members and donors have had a single goal: to continue providing essential, high-quality support to people affected by lymphedema. Together, we

I hear you. You’d like to know all the details of our achievements and activities. Following the Annual General Meeting of members on June 19, the 2023-2024 Activity Report will be available to all on our website.

In the meantime, don’t hesitate to come to us for reliable information, help and support.

You are our raison d’être!

Anne-Marie Joncas, présidente

WE LOVE YOU!

You are dozens of generous fairies, seasoned strategists, golden volunteers and loyal donors who have supported the LAQ tirelessly. To all of you, a word that says it all: THANK YOU.

I’d like to pay tribute to three people who have lovingly carried the LAQ and the lymphedema cause on their shoulders since the spring of 2023.

Ginette Bardou, you dear friend, who had no connection with lymphedema other than knowing me, you were not only touched by the cause, but also by the upheavals that rocked our boat. Ginette, I salute your dedication, your hard work and your calm, methodical approach. You are an essential captain in our organization. A guide to follow. Thank you for offering your help.

Marie-Thérèse Le Noir, always loyal, always friendly, always ready to go the extra mile. For years, your smiling

A MESSAGE FROM MANAGEMENT

The year 2025 will mark the beginning of the LAQ’s 25th anniversary festivities, a unique opportunity to celebrate our evolution and achievements. It will be a year of milestone events, culminating in a major gathering to put lymphedema in the spotlight and express our gratitude to all those who have contributed to our success: our members, volunteers, donors, partners and allies. Details of this major event, scheduled for March 6, 2025, will be announced shortly.

Ginette Bardou, Interim General Manager

voice and attentive listening have warmly welcomed everyone who turns to the LAQ. Your quiet steadfastness handles the most demanding tasks, making you an ally we can always count on. Thank you for being there again and again.

Georgina Cama, a great advocate who agreed to carry the petition against the closure of the MUHC Lymphedema Clinic on behalf of all patients. Through your determination and courage, you made it possible to gather over 13,700 signatures. We are proud to count you among our honorary members and to spread the word about this initiative.

To my three heroes of 2023-2024, bravo and thank you.

With all my friendship and admiration, Anne-Marie

Lymphedema Clinic update

The Lymphedema Clinic of the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) will continue to operate its normal three-day-a-week schedule until October 2024. At that point, current funding allocations will be exhausted. MUHC officials are actively working to find solutions to fund the Clinic’s services beyond that date. Although no specific action plan or timetable has yet been announced, the Clinic and its patients remain hopeful and confident that the MUHC will maintain this specialized assessment service, vital for complex cases. The Lymphedema Association of Québec (LAQ) remains mobilized to put an end to the uncertainty weighing on patients.

Marie-Thérèse Georgina Ginette

Selection criteria for lymphedema surgery at the MUHC

The Division of Plastic Surgery of the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) is proud to offer access to the Lymphedema Surgical Clinic, operating in conjunction with the Lymphedema Support Centre-QBCF (also known as the MUHC Lymphedema Clinic). This clinic, situated at the Montreal General Hospital, aims to assess patients for eligibility for lymphedema surgery. With a focus on improving patient outcomes and quality of life, the team is offering vascularized lymph node transfers (VLNT) as our primary surgical intervention at this time.

Understanding Lymphedema Surgery

Lymphedema surgery is a promising avenue in the treatment of lymphedema, a condition characterized by swelling due to lymphatic system dysfunction. While surgery does not offer a cure, it can significantly alleviate symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life. The two main surgical options available at the MUHC are lymphovenous bypass (LVB) and VLNT. LVB is suitable for patients with functional lymphatic channels that are obstructed, while VLNT is reserved for those without functional channels.

Patient Selection

Patient selection is paramount in ensuring successful outcomes for lymphedema surgery. Candidates must meet specific criteria to be considered for surgery:

• BMI <35

• Compliance with conservative therapy

• Stabilization or plateauing of limb volume despite conservative treatment

• Well-controlled medical comorbidities

• Absence of metastatic cancer

• Non-smoker

• Realistic expectations regarding surgery outcomes

It is essential that certain medical conditions are well managed before surgery to minimize risks and optimize outcomes. These conditions include vascular disease (venous insufficiency, peripheral arterial disease), congestive heart failure, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and liver disease.

Consultation and Post-Operative Care

During the consultation, patients will undergo a comprehensive evaluation, including a physical examination and imaging studies. Imaging with ultrasound and indocyanine green (ICG) will be performed to assess lymphatic function and blockages. Following surgery, patients will receive detailed instructions for post-operative care, including activity restrictions and follow-up visits.

What happens if patients are candidates for surgery? Specific details of the surgery will be discussed with the patients during the consultation. Patients will also be given a handout with

post-operative instructions regarding activity limitations and instructions about use of compression wraps.

Medical Follow-up Visits

After undergoing lymphedema surgery, consistent medical follow-up is crucial to ensure the best possible outcomes and to monitor the patient’s progress. The frequency of these visits, coupled with specific measurements, provides valuable insights into the patient’s recovery journey.

Patients are scheduled for medical visits at strategic intervals including:

• One week post-op: This initial visit allows healthcare providers to assess the immediate aftermath of surgery, monitor healing progress, and address any immediate post-operative issues.

• Three months post-op: At this stage, patients return for a comprehensive evaluation to track their progress three months after surgery. This visit serves as a critical checkpoint to assess early recovery and identify any emerging issues.

• Six months post-op: Six months post-surgery, patients undergo another round of evaluation to monitor their long-term healing progress and ensure the sustainability of results achieved thus far.

• One-year post-op: This milestone visit marks one year since the surgery and provides an opportunity for a comprehensive assessment of the overall outcomes. It allows healthcare providers to review the effectiveness of the surgery and address any lingering concerns.

Referral Process

Patients wishing to be evaluated at the MUHC Lymphedema Surgical Clinic must be referred by their healthcare professional to Dr. Joshua Vorstenbosch at the Montreal General Hospital Plastic Surgery Clinic. Referral criteria should be met, and patients should be willing to explore the possibility of lymphedema surgery.

The introduction of lymphedema surgery at the MUHC represents a significant advancement in the treatment of this debilitating condition. By adhering to strict selection criteria and providing comprehensive care, this team aims to improve the lives of patients suffering from lymphedema.

The Debate on Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines: A Call for Change

In June 2024, Dr. Shiela Appavoo and Dr. Paula Gordon addressed the Standing Committee on Health, expressing their grave concerns regarding the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care’s new draft guidelines on breast cancer screening. These guidelines recommend against screening women aged 40-49, a stance that Dr. Appavoo and Dr. Gordon strongly oppose.

Dr. Appavoo, a radiologist and chair of the Canadian Society of Breast Imaging Patient Engagement Working Group, highlighted the significant discrepancy between the Task Force’s guidelines and those of other major health organizations.

While the U.S. Task Force, the Canadian Cancer Society, and most Canadian provinces advocate for starting screenings at age 40, the Canadian Task Force remains resistant to change.

Dr. Appavoo criticized this stance as biased and predetermined, emphasizing that early detection saves lives and reduces the need for aggressive treatments.

Dr. Gordon further underscored the benefits of early screening, pointing out that women aged 40-49 are 44% less likely to die of breast cancer if they undergo regular mammograms. She argued that the Task Force’s focus on the potential “harms” of screening, such as anxiety from false positives and overdiagnosis, is misleading. Dr. Gordon stressed that the anxiety of a false positive is transient and minor compared to the distress and treatment burden of an advanced cancer diagnosis.

Both doctors emphasized the financial and health benefits of early detection. Research shows that early screenings can save Canada around $440 million annually by reducing the costs associated with late-stage cancer treatments. They called for a re-evaluation and overhaul of the Task Force’s guidelines, advocating for policies that reflect the latest evidence and prioritize the health and well-being of Canadian women.

In summary, Dr. Appavoo and Dr. Gordon’s testimonies highlight the urgent need to reconsider the Canadian Task Force’s breast cancer screening guidelines, advocating for earlier and more inclusive screening practices to save lives and reduce treatment burdens.

WATCH THE TESTIMONY OF DR PAULA GORDON AND DR SHIELA APPAVOO HERE

https://parlvu.parl.gc.ca/Harmony/en/PowerBrowser/PowerBrowserV2/00010101/-1/41871?Embedded=true&globalstreamId=20&viewMode=3

Breast cancer screening: recommendations called into question

Québec radiologists have expressed surprise at the recommendations of the Preventive Health Care Task Force, which call into question the need for systematic breast cancer screening before the age of 50. This questioning is seen as a lack of credibility by these healthcare professionals. Delayed cancer screening increases the risk of lymph node removal and, consequently, lymphedema.

Read this Montreal Gazette article to get a full national portrait of breast cancer screening.

IN REAL ACTION

LAQ makes its services known to surgeons treating venous insufficiency

On May 25, the LAQ was invited to present its tools and services for professionals at Entretiens vascu laires 2024, part of the 42nd edition of the Association de chirurgie vasculaire et endovasculaire du Québec (ACVEQ) conference. Many thanks to Marize Ibrahim, certified therapist at the MUHC Lymphe dema Clinic (QBCF Lymphedema Support Centre), who brilliantly explained patient issues and the resources available to this group of specialized surgeons. The LAQ presentation followed presentations by Dr. Violaine Dalens, Vascular Medicine, on the classification and clinical approach to lymphedema, Dr. Cynthia Brousseau Provencher, Internal Medicine, on local care, and Dr. Olivier Larrivée, Plastic Surgeon, on the surgical approach. Our gratitude to the ACVEQ for dedicating an entire section of the event to lymphedema and for giving us access to these specialists, who play a key role in the lives of people with venous insufficiency-related lymphedema.

The LAQ at the right time for women at risk and affected by the disease

Dozens of women diagnosed with breast cancer and healthcare professionals lined up at the LAQ booth at the QBCF’s Breast Health Forum. A golden opportunity to provide preventive information to those at risk of lymphedema, and guidance to those presenting with swelling or diagnosed with lymphedema. Thanks to Marie-Eve Letellier and Marie-Thérèse Le Noir for their smiles and reassuring presence. A special hello to Dr. Cathie Dumont of the Centre Se Reconstruire, who took advantage of her visit to our booth to show her great interest in lymphedema and the LAQ. Our heartfelt thanks to the QBCF for giving us such a spe cial place at the Forum.

Participate in the Lymphedema Hospital Staff Survey. This exercise will help the LAQ build a portrait of the needs

$25,000 for lymphedema research!

On May 4, the Québec Breast Cancer Foundation (QBCF) presented the Prix BNC innovation et soutien à la communauté to the QBCF Lymphedema Support Center through the LAQ.

Located at the McGill University Health Centre, this specialized centre has expertise that is unique in Canada and Québec, benefiting the community every day. Their innovative research program is instrumental in improving the quality of life of lymphedema sufferers, as well as frontline assessment.

Congratulations once again to the research team for this well-deserved award, which generously supports lymphedema research in Québec! And our sincere thanks to BNC and the QBCF.

Letellier, LAQ Board Director, and Dr. Anna Towers, Director of the Lymphedema Support Centre-QBCF, received the BNC Innovation and Community Support Award presented by the QBCF at the Forum santé des seins.

Marie-Eve Letellier was at the LAQ booth to answer questions from Forum participants, accompanied by Marie-Thérèse Le Noir (dedicated volunteer and photographer!)

Marie-Eve

Marize Ibrahim acted as a volunteer professional member representing the LAQ to an important audience: vascular surgeons.

LAQʼS ACTIVITY IN THE SPOTLIGHT

LAQ launches lymphedema walk with Grand défoulement YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A PAIR OF PLANE TICKETS

Dear supporters,

To show our deepest gratitude to all the walkers who contribute with such generosity and dedication to the success of The Lymphedema Walk with le Grand défoulement, we have a surprise for you!

By registering for the Walk with the Lymphedema Association of Quebec team before July 1, 2024, you’ll have a chance to win a pair of economy-class airline tickets, courtesy of the Air Canada Foundation.

These two tickets, worth $2,900, will open the doors to all scheduled destinations served by Air Canada in North America, including Hawaii, Mexico and the Caribbean

DO YOU FEEL THE CALL FOR ADVENTURE

Don’t miss this opportunity, register now for Montréal’s Walk. If you can’t make the walk, PLEASE DONATE! Sign up and start fundraising today or donate.

It’s time to renew your STOCK!

June already! We’re halfway through the year, and as a valued partner, you may have run out of the LAQ information material you distribute to your patients and customers. Check your stocks and order our free documentation now. Don’t delay! We only have a small quantity left of the 2024 Lymphedema Guide! Order today.

LAQ at the fingertips of cancer professionals

The presentation of the LAQ’s many resources is now part of the extranet of the Réseau de la cancérologie de la Montérégie, for the benefit of all the professionals who work there. In addition to explaining the disease, our toolbox is presented with all its advantages: information for the general public, documentation for caregivers, the ProLymph network, the Therapeutic Support Program... it’s all there! Curious? Take a look.

An evening of testimonials about “Living daily with lymphedema”

Your next online education and support group takes place on June 13, 2024, at 7 p.m.

An evening of testimonial about “Living daily with lymphedema” hosted by Gisèle Laliberté, certified therapist – Join a virtual social gathering where people experiencing lymphedema share practical tips. Dressing, shoes, work, travel, exercise, self-management, budgeting – so many practical topics to help you in your daily life.

An adequate level of French is preferable to take part in this Zoom gathering. This free event, organized by the LAQ, will take place on THURSDAY, June 13 at 7 p.m. Free and MANDATORY registration by clicking here.

NEXT MEETING: SEPTEMBER 2024.

We look forward to seeing you!

LAQ EDUCATION AND SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGS WILL TAKE A SUMMER BREAK. This lymphedema event is made possible by the dedication of volunteer therapists and the Lymphedema Association of Québec. The LAQ’s mission is to support people at risk and those affected by lymphedema, while raising awareness of lymphedema as a chronic disease among health professionals.

SUCCESSFUL WEBINARS FOR PROS!

ebinars organized by compression manufacturers in partnership with the LAQ are a huge success! In March and May, Essity and Juzo respectively reached 100 and over 60 healthcare professionals to present their compression solutions. The next webinar will be held in October by Medi. Stay tuned for further details.

what a surprise!

We’ll have a very special guest at the June 13 support group: Sophie Truesdell-Ménard, founder of Garde tes cheveux, will talk about what inspired her to change the face of cancer. She’ll also be sharing tips that make her daily life with lymphedema easier.

Would you like to present your products and services to the LAQ’s professional audience? Become a corporate member and sponsor. Next cycle begins in November 2024.

Information: aql@infolympho.ca

A giant leap forward !!!

Donations soared in May thanks to the Québec Breast Cancer Foundation, which granted the LAQ $25,000 to fund research conducted by the Lymphedema Support Centre-FCSQ! And you, dear members and supporters, your contribution counts too! Every dollar has the power to help more people with lymphedema.

Give generously!

A new update of the LAQ Lymphedema Guide 2024 was published in June. Consult it online!

WELCOME New Corporate Members

NEW CORPORATE MEMBER IN DRUMMONDVILLE:

Welcome to SAVARD ORTHO CONFORT offering prefabricated and made-to-measure compression garments

NEW CORPORATE MEMBER IN REPENTIGNY:

Welcome to Daphney Prophète, a fitter and nurse who sells compression bandages, compression garments and stockings, both ready-to-wear and made-to-measure. She also offers advanced wound care and compression fitting services (by appointment, in-home and in-clinic services).

The following five new regular members joined us in May 2024:

Johanne Bruneau

Francine Caron

Michèle De Sève

Vanessa Gagné-Babin

Danielle Lefebvre

We welcome you and thank you for your support!

The Lymphedema Association of Québec is a strength of…

228 regular and professional members

32 corporate members with 65 points of service and 25 years of championing the cause of lymphedema with you!

IMPORTANT MESSAGE!

REGULAR MEMBERS: To renew your membership YOU MUST ACTIVATE YOUR MEMBER AREA!

It’s very simple:

1 Click on this link https://infolympho.ca/mon-compte/ (DO NOT go to the Become a Member section of the website.)

2 Enter your e-mail address

3 Click on Lost password

4 Change your password from the last e-mail you received

5 Click again on https://infolympho.ca/mon-compte/

6 In the left-hand menu, click on Renewal

Your pre-filled form makes it easy! It only takes a few minutes, including payment by credit card, to renew your membership for one (1) year. If you have any problems, please contact us at aql@infolympho.ca

YOUR EXCLUSIVE ADVANTAGES

• A Members’ Area containing all your tools, plus all RAMQ program documents, including the Request for Review form.

• Monthly newsletter L’info AQL

• Printed quarterly Pathways magazine

• Self-management booklet Learning to take charge

• Cellulitis Assistance Card

• Self-measurement guidelines for arms and legs

• L’info AQL Surgery edition

• VIP invitations for support education and groups. plus events

• Your tools are mailed to you AND accessible in your online Member Section

The annual dues for Regular Members are $42.

TIP OF THE MONTH

HEATWAVES: KEEP YOUR COOL

As you know, lymphedema reacts badly to Humidex. So avoid heat and humidity as much as possible, and when the temperature rises dangerously, stay cool in air-conditioning. Prefer early morning and dusk for outdoor activities.

In hot weather, seek shade. Even if it means bringing «portable» shade with you: an umbrella, a parasol with a spike, a self-erecting camping shelter or a freestanding beach tent. These screens will cut out some of the heat. You may have no choice but to expose yourself to the full sun if, for example, you go to the beach, play golf, encourage your children at soccer or enjoy the pleasures of a boardwalk. In such cases, increase compression. To do this, wrap short-stretch bandages over your compression garment, or add a worn-out compression garment over a new one to help control swelling.

Summer means insect bites. Bring out the heavy artillery to avoid a bite that could lead to infection of the affected limb. Mosquito netting, insect repellent, electric insect repellent, citronella, long, light-coloured clothing, a fan, grandma’s tricks... don’t leave anything to chance.

And to get summer off to a good start, don’t forget to refresh your knowledge about reducing the risk of complications!

© Association québécoise du lymphœdème.

IMPRESSION ET AUTORISATION DE DIFFUSION : Réimpression permise pour usage personnel seulement. Le contenu ne peut être diffusé/partagé que sur permission écrite de l’AQL. Demandez une autorisation à aql@infolympho.ca

Win a trip thanks to The Lymphedema Walk with Le Grand défoulement

Dear supporters,

To show our deepest gratitude to all the walkers who contribute with such generosity and dedication to the success of The Lymphedema Walk with le Grand défoulement, we have a surprise for you!

By registering for the Walk with the Lymphedema Association of Quebec team before July 1, 2024, you’ll have a chance to win a pair of economy-class airline tickets, courtesy of the Air Canada Foundation. These two tickets, worth $2,900, will open the doors to all scheduled destinations served by Air Canada in North America, including Hawaii, Mexico and the Caribbean.

Do you feel the call for adventure?

Don’t miss this opportunity, register now for Montréal’s Walk. If you can’t make the walk, PLEASE DONATE!