Patient Stories
#realdeservestobeseen
Real stories, real strength, real support.
At Patient Choice, we understand that living with a long-term health condition - such as lymphoedema, lipoedema or having a stoma - can bring daily challenges that are often hard to put into words. But you’re not alone.
Our patient stories shine a light on the courage, resilience and hope found in real health journeys. By reading how others navigate life with their health conditions, you can feel inspired, understood and connected to a patient community that truly cares.
Need further information or support? Pop to our dedicated information page to find lots of helpful links to make navigating your own health journey that bit easier. Visit our further information & support page
Want to share your story? We would love you to join our #realdeservestobeseen campaign!
I'd like to share my story!
Noticed that not everyone and every health condition is being represented at the moment? This is because we have yet to find willing volunteers among our patient community who feel able to share their health journey with others. Want to change this, so more of our community feels recognised? You know what you need to do... I'd like to share my story!
I hate feeling different and not 'normal',
I constantly think 'why me?'
Hayley is a mum of four living with primary late onset lymphoedema, as well as being a cervical cancer survivor. "I want to empower those with the condition to not hide away, but embrace it
as best we can."
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Lymphoedema is not something
anyone wants to deal with, but it comes with the territory of breast cancer.
Jenny was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer and developed secondary lymphoedema following her cancer treatment. "My [compression] glove and sleeve are a constant reminder, I have metaphorically dodged a bullet."
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Sometimes it feels like a very boring and sad treadmill: putting compression on and off
day after day, with no break.
Julie lives with primary lymphoedema and has recovered from deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Regular exercise is a big part of her self-care regime. "I know how important it is to keep moving to manage the condition effectively."
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I am a qualified practitioner as well as a patient. I am doing my best to live
my own advice!
Not only is Kate a qualified lymphoedema specialist practitioner, she is also living with secondary lymphoedema following cancer treatment. "It can sometimes feel overwhelming."
Campaigns like this are so important to let others know they are not alone
in rocking the stockings!
Louise developed primary lymphoedema following hormone changes caused by her IVF treatment. She has also suffered cellulitis twice. "I'm a member of the Lymphoedema Support Network, it has so much helpful information for people suffering with this condition."
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I want to show others that this illness
doesn't need to stop us.
For Tracey, her health journey has involved battling breast cancer and learning to live with secondary lymphoedema as a result of her essential cancer treatment. "Losing 64kg and getting the right [compression] garments has helped transform my condition."
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