The Story
Narrative arc from diagnosis through surgery, recovery, and chronic lymphoedema, explicitly separating lived experience from clinically verified record claims.
This site distinguishes lived experience from medical documentation.Deze site onderscheidt geleefde ervaring van medische documentatie.
What was happening everywhere else.Wat er overal elders gebeurde.
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2019-06
Cancer diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosed with Stage IIB cervical adenocarcinoma in June 2019, following an April–June sequence of abnormal cervical smear, colposcopy, and biopsy. Underwent a radical hysterectomy with lymph-node removal on 23 August 2019; ovaries preserved. Postoperative pathology did not lead to chemotherapy or radiation at that time.
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2019-09
Recovery and rebuilding
Postoperative recovery including catheter, bladder retraining, lifting restrictions, and a gradual return to walking and daily life; occupational health classified this period as not fit for work.
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2023
First signs of lymphoedema
Right-leg swelling became noticeable during 2023, several years after lymph-node removal during cancer surgery, first affecting shoe fit and initially managed quietly alongside work.
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2024-01
Lymphoedema clinically identified
A significant right-ankle/foot flare led to same-day GP referral and hospital assessment. Ultrasound excluded thrombosis; the presentation was assessed as consistent with lymphoedema, and chronic management began.
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2024-2026
Specialist referral
Ongoing chronic lymphoedema management with compression, lymphatic treatment, movement, and tracking, with increasing effect on work, travel, and daily planning. Further specialist escalation/referral details will be added once confirmed against referral documentation.
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2026
Health, Recovery & Agency section begins
Started building the public-facing Health, Recovery & Agency section of this site.