Living with lymphedema successfully
The importance of early diagnosis, treatment and staying active
By Darek MikitaDiagnosis
Darek Mikita was diagnosed with cancer in May 2005 at the age of 47. A malignant melanoma on his back had already spread to the front of his chest and to lymph nodes. The treatment protocol included chemotherapy, radiation and the removal of 39 lymph nodes. At the end of the treatment, Darek noticed that his left arm was different from the right one. During an oncology visit, a nurse recognized the need for lymphedema treatment and referred him to a certified lymphedema therapist in Winnipeg.
Lymphedema treatment
The therapist introduced him to manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) and compression garments. These were able to keep the lymphedema swelling in his arm minimal. Darek now wears a custom compression sleeve all day, and uses a white sports sleeve during sports activities. Although the lymphedema was being managed, the chemotherapy and radiation treatment had
caused him to become weak, as he had lost a substantial amount of weight and muscle. Even walking was a challenge, but the athlete in him knew that he needed a plan to progress. With the continuous support of his wife, Darek slowly built up his cardio by creating a fitness ladder, walking 20 metres to start, and gradually moving to longer and longer laps. Eventually over the next 4-5 years he was able to enjoy biking, running, and jogging again.
Infections
One serious complication for people living with lymphedema is a bacterial infection called cellulitis. Darek continues to battle with these infections as the years go on. His notes that first episode of cellulitis was “selfinflicted” shortly after his lymphedema diagnosis. During a soccer game as a goalie, the ball hit his arm repeatedly while
Darek Mikita, a Professional Engineer lives with his wife Alicia in Headingley, Manitoba. He is an accomplished International Table Tennis Umpire and represented Canada in Para Olympics and Olympics Games. Darek wants to connect with other men living with lymphedema. Darek can be reached at darekm@mymts.net.
This article was adapted from an original interview published in LAM: Swelling with Emotion (Spring 2022).
defending the goal. This may have caused further damage to his lymphatic system. His arm quickly became red and painful. Ten days of antibiotics resolved the infection. It was shortly after this that he was introduced to another certified lymphedema therapist (Edith Mulhall), whom he describes as the “godmother” of lymphedema therapy. He recalls realizing that he should have sought focused treatment sooner and notes that this was where his true journey with managing lymphedema started.
Edith taught him how injuries to his left arm could be detrimental for lymphedema. He learned the importance of protecting his arm, as injuries from cuts, burns or blunt trauma could have a serious impact on his health. She also taught him specific exercises that improved his flexibility and reach; these being extremely important to Darek inorder to participate in sports again.
Darek’s second infection began after painting his deck. He had been supporting himself with his left arm, which prevented the arm from draining properly. COVID-19 lock-down restrictions prevented him from receiving his lymphatic drainage treatments and most likely put him at risk for yet another infection. Darek explains, “I was watching TV and I began to get shivers and started yawning. I felt like I was getting a fever at the speed of sound, while my lymphedema arm was becoming red. I knew I needed to get to the emergency department
for IV antibiotics. I was so tired. I received my medical treatment about 10 hours later, which was not good.” A strong dose of IV antibiotic treatment this time helped resolved the cellulitis within a few weeks, followed by very gentle drainage which helped a lot. The guidance of an experienced therapist is very important when someone is recovering from cellulitis.
Active living with lymphedema
Prior to his cancer diagnosis Darek was very athletic and enjoyed activities like triathlons, soccer, tennis and table tennis. However, the lymphedema in his arm made him nervous about his future participation in these activities. Sports were a priority for Darek to improve his quality of life and he did just that. Today he is back to being an active athlete and he is also an international table tennis umpire. He made modifications that allowed him to play, while minimizing his risks. Playing soccer as a forward rather than goalie is just one example of these modifications. He also wears an arm sports compression sleeve. He has increasingly learned to read his body but does not live in fear of potential infections or what could happen.
Support
Darek has been supported by several therapists over the years. He acknowledges the encouragement and information they provided, that allowed him to use his affected arm normally. Each therapist offered a new and different perspective. Nancy Rosewell, his current therapist, is working with him on specific weight bearing exercises to strengthen his triceps. This is improving the flexibility in his arm and is working on the trouble areas in his elbow. Lymphedema education and awareness have come a long way since beginning his
lymphedema diagnosis. However, Darek believes there are many people living with lymphedema who may not realize it or have the knowledge they need. He is advocating for more information and hopes his story can help others on their journey with lymphedema management.
“The sooner that people start with therapy the better, is a lesson I learned. I would advise people to educate themselves, get proper treatment and coaching as soon as possible, in order to be able to smile and move again, like me.” LP
Darek has been supported by several therapists over the years. He acknowledges the encouragement and information they provided, that allowed him to use his affected arm normally. Each therapist offered a new and different perspective.