AUTUMN 2013
RACHEL LEVIN TROXELL 1 9 7 0 - 2 0 08
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our story
The story of LympheDIVAs began in Philadelphia when two young breast cancer survivors, Rachel Troxell and Robin Miller, developed lymphedema, a side effect of breast cancer treatment that can cause permanent swelling in the arms. Their physicians and lymphedema therapists recommended a compression sleeve as the most effective way of controlling the swelling. When they researched the options for the sleeve they found that the only ones available were rough textured, heavy, hot, beige, and bandage-like. Frustrated and dismayed over the lack of options they had for compression sleeves, Robin and Rachel met with Kristin Dudley, a fashion designer, to discuss their idea of creating a more elegant and comfortable compression sleeve. In late 2007, Robin left the company. Soon after, Rachel discovered her breast cancer had returned. While she was being treated, she continued building LympheDIVAs, which brought her much joy during a difficult time in her life. Rachel died January 22, 2008, at the age of 37. Her determination and compassion to improve the lives of breast cancer survivors is very much ingrained in the spirit of LympheDIVAs. Today, LympheDIVAs’ products can be found in retail locations nationwide and internationally. At Rachel’s request, her father Dr. Howard Levin and her mother, Judy Levin took over the responsibility of running the company which their daughter helped found. In August of 2010, Rachel’s little brother, Josh Levin, joined the company and is now running it with his parents. They all hope that LympheDIVAs’ compression apparel will continue to inspire breast cancer survivors everywhere to feel as beautiful, strong and confident as Rachel was. 3
about lymphedema What is the lymphatic system and lymphedema? The lymphatic system is structured like a web, occasionally draining into small nodes that filter the lymphatic fluid. The system works through the pumping power of the body’s muscles. When the muscles contract they increase pressure within the lymph vessels, which causes the fluid to move. A series of oneway valves ensure that the lymphatic fluid moves in the right direction. Lymphedema is a build up of protein rich fluid in the subcutaneous interstitial compartment. This occurs when either lymph fluid is impeded from flowing through the lymph vessels and lymphatic system or there is an excess of fluid that exceeds the carrying capacity of the lymph system. The fluid collects in the subcutaneous and deep tissues causing swelling of the affected area and predisposes to chronic inflammation. What happens when lymphedema occurs in people after breast cancer treatment? When a sentinel node is removed, a number of nodes are removed, or if the nodes receive radiation therapy, the body is at risk for lymphedema. The loss of lymph nodes and vessels can result in lymphedema in the arm or other parts of the body. The amount of fluid collected is variable and at this time is unpredictable because of the variability of the insults and the lymphatic system itself. Why is it important to be aware of this? Any event which stimulates the formation of increased protein fluid and floating cells between the cells in the arm (such as infection, trauma and sun burn) or slows the flow of lymph fluid out of the arm (such as having blood pressure taken with a cuff) can increase the chance of fluid accumulating in the arm. Since no truly curative therapies exist, medical intervention is focused on preventing occurrences and recurrences and is most often dependent on patient self-management and adherence. Prolonged or severe fluid build up can result in a more severe and permanent lymphedema. How do LympheDIVAs sleeves and gauntlets help manage lymphedema? Lymphedema is managed and treated through a variety of therapies. Compression garments are one such therapy. Our sleeves and gauntlets are Class 1 (20-30mmHg) and Class 2 (30-40mmHg) medical devices. Like other sleeves they utilize graduated compression with the highest pressure at the wrist and hand, which acts as a pump to encourage the lymph vessels to push the lymph fluid toward the body. Our garments are regularly tested to ensure proper compression. How do LympheDIVAs sleeves and gauntlets make lymphedema management easier? We believe that a majority of sleeves that are prescribed and purchased are worn a few times and then hidden in a drawer because of distaste and discomfort. Knowing that a compression sleeve cannot reduce the chance of occurrence or swelling by remaining in the drawer, we have made lymphedema management easier by creating a fashionable garment with superior comfort. A LympheDIVA enjoys wearing her sleeve because it is stylish, fashionable and fun. Women are more likely to derive the benefits of the garments simply because they are more likely to wear them and less likely to suffer from complications! 4
Who should wear a LympheDIVAs sleeve? Our garments are appropriate for those with mild to moderate lymphedema, or for those at risk. Our Class 1 sleeves are not recommended for severe swelling. When should a sleeve be worn? We recommend consulting with a doctor or lymphedema therapist in order to find the most appropriate therapy for you. All women who are at risk for lymphedema or who have mild to moderate lymphedema should, at a minimum, wear their sleeve and gauntlet during air travel and while exercising.
risk reduction Guidelines for reducing the risk of lymphedema for those who have had lymph node removal and/or radiation
K E E P A H E A LT H Y D I E T Maintaining a healthy weight lowers the risk for developing lymphedema. Lower sodium intake.
KEEP SKIN PROTECTED Use pH balanced lotions and soaps. Protect hands with gloves when cleaning.
AV O I D M U S C L E S T R A I N It is okay to do normal activities & exercise with the affected arm, but don’t overdo it! Consult with you doctor about the level of activity that is right for you.
AV O I D B U R N S Protect your arm from sunburn. Use oven mitts when cooking & avoid splash burns from steaming foods. Do not use hot tubs or saunas.
AV O I D I N F E C T I O N Have blood drawn & shots given on the unaffected arm. Keep your skin clean and protected from cuts and scratches. Always carry band-aids!
AV O I D R E S T R I C T I V E C L O T H I N G Wearing tight jewelry on the affected arm or hand will create a tourniquet effect. Blood pressure should be taken on the unaffected arm or thigh when both arms are affected. Carry briefcases and/or purses on the opposite arm.
DO WATCH FOR: a full feeling in your arm • a difference in size between the affected and non-affected arm • weakness in your arm or not being able to move it as far • when pressing on the affected arm for twenty seconds, the impression of the finger remains 5
medical advisors LympheDIVAs works with physicians, physical therapists, nurses, nurse practitioners and physician assistants to assure our customers that the products we design are medically correct. Our medical advisory team oversees the development of our products and helps us monitor product testing.
H O WA R D A . L E V I N , M . D . Medical School: New York University, 1966 Dr. Levin is the father of the founder of LympheDIVAs, LLC, Rachel Levin Troxell. Following graduation from Medical School, he was trained in Internal Medicine in the Harvard training program at Beth Israel Hospital, Boston, Mass. He spent the next four years as a post doctoral fellow in Immunology and Rheumatology at Harvard University and a year at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel as a Fullbright Scholar. In 1972 he then received an appointment as Senior Staff Fellow in the Immunology Department of the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Maryland. From 1976-1988 he practiced Internal Medicine and Rheumatology and served as Medical Director of the 70 physician San Jose Medical Group in San Jose, California. After several years as a medical director for an insurance company he spent 10 years as a management consultant and partner with Milliman, USA, an Actuarial and Management Consulting Company. Dr. Levin is currently vice president and chief medical officer for LympheDIVAs.
ANDREA L. CHEVILLE, M.D. Medical School: Harvard Medical School Fellowship: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Dr. Cheville currently is Senior Associate Consultant at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, specializing in cancer rehabilitation, lymphedema, and survivorship. Until August 2006, Dr. Cheville directed the Cancer Rehabilitation and Lymphedema Programs at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA. A leader in the field of cancer rehabilitation, pain control and symptom management, Dr. Cheville has published papers on cancer rehabilitation and is a nationally recognized expert in this field. Lymphedema is a primary focus of Dr. 6
Cheville’s research, and she serves on the Medical Advisory Committee of the National Lymphedema Network and is a board member of the Lymphology Association of North America. Dr. Cheville has been recognized in Philadelphia Magazine’s May 2002, 2005, 2006 Top Docs issue, and has been recognized by Best Doctors in America 2005-2006.
JEANNETTE ZUCKER, DPT Graduate School: New York University, 2002 Jeannette Zucker holds a clinical Doctorate in Physical Therapy from New York University. She received her lymphedema certification from Klose Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy in 2002 and started her career at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) in 2003. In 2004, Jeannette assisted with the establishment of the lymphedema therapy program at the main campus and as the Lymphedema Clinical Specialist she continues to work on further developing the service to promote the awareness, early diagnosis and risk minimization of lymphedema. She leads the support groups for patients who have, and are at risk, for lymphedema through the PostTreatment Resource Program. Jeannette received her LANA certification in 2005 and was awarded the Susan G. Komen Conference scholarship by the National Lymphedema Network (NLN) in 2006. In 2007, she helped to develop the Lower Extremity Lymphedema Prevention Program for MSKCC and joined the Scientific Committee of the NLN. She continues to serve on the committee and provide lectures at the biennial NLN Conferences. In 2009, Jeannette joined the faculty of the Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy. In 2010 she joined the editorial board of the NLN’s electronic newsletter E-Channel. Her current focus on treatment intervention is edema management regardless of etiology, scar management, and improving facial mobility and skin mobility through manual lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, compression therapy, kinesiotaping and laser therapy.
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L O T U S D R A G O N TAT T O O
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sleeve + gauntlet
stunning innovations We set out not to just make a pretty sleeve but also one that is more comfortable and improves the management of lymphedema.
360° STRETCH
Allows our garments to stretch as your arm bends and flexes and prevents binding at the elbow.
G R A D U AT E D COMPRESSION
All garments are available in Class 1 (20-30mmHg) and Class 2 (30-40mmHg) compression.
MOISTURE WICKING
Pulls sweat away from the body, cools the arm and is fast drying!
ALOE VERA
A fabric finishing process which adds unscented aloe vera moisturizing micro-capsules for added softness and skin protection.
FINE KNIT
A fine knit construction producing a smooth lightweight surface and replicating a ‘second skin.’
our philosophy We are dedicated to creating medically correct compression apparel for the savvy breast cancer survivor with lymphedema that will inspire her to feel beautiful, strong and confident. The medical requirements are obvious, but the emotional aspect of healing is important and often ignored. A positive mindset can often lead to a much better physical response.
a fashion statement We believe that getting the hottest and latest patterns to our customers is important. Our team studies the newest trends in patterns and colors by scouring the runways, attending trendspotting trade shows and sourcing fashion publications. Just like the fashion powerhouses in New York, London, Milan, Paris and Tokyo, we introduce new patterns biannually in the Spring and Autumn.
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sizing chart LENGTH
A
SHORT 37 – 44 cm
B
PA L M
WRIST
C
D
REGULAR 43 – 56 cm
M ID U P P ER
M ID LO WER
SMALL
MEDIUM
LARGE
15 – 18.7 cm
19 – 21.9 cm
22 – 26 cm
15 – 19 cm
16.5 – 21.6 cm
19 – 23.5 cm
C. MID LOWER
17.8 – 23.2 cm
23.5 – 28.7 cm
28.9 – 34.3 cm
D. MID UPPER
21.6 – 39.4 cm
27 – 45 cm
32.4 – 50.5 cm
A . PA L M B. WRIST
HOW TO MEASURE Have a friend help you to get the most accurate measurements. Relax your arm by resting it on a table, bending it slightly to create a small bend in the elbow. Your arm should not be completely straight, nor fully bent.
A. PALM Let your fingers relax, and bring the measuring tape so it’s just under your knuckles. Pull gently so the tape has no slack. Record the measurement.
B. WRIST Hold measuring tape around your wrist, going over the little bone on the outside. Pull tape to the point of gentle tension; there should be no slack, but you should not be pulling so hard that the tape creates an indentation. Record the measurement.
C. MID LOWER Move the measuring tape up your arm so that it goes around the thick part of your forearm. Use the same amount of gentle tension and record the measurement.
D. MID UPPER Bring the measuring tape to the upper part of your arm, halfway between your elbow and your armpit. If you have any extra skin here, gather it together as much as possible. You should hold the tape a bit tighter here so that all your skin is encircled evenly. Record the measurement.
LENGTH Measure your arm length from the top of your arm (axilla) to your wrist to determine your sleeve length. If you are in between sizes, please consult a medical professional, professional fitter, lymphedema therapist or LympheDIVAs to ensure proper fit. 10
garment care Caring for your garment is as easy as 1-2-3! Following the care instructions will ensure that your garment lasts the full four to six months while retaining compression.
1
Place the garment in a lingerie bag to prevent snagging.
2
Machine wash in warm water using a gentle detergent.
3
Machine dry at medium heat.
DO NOT DO ANY OF THE FOLLOWING Doing any of these can potentially ruin the garment and compromise the compression. hand wash • wring dry • line dry • dry clean • use any chemical solvent, fabric softener, bleach or any other laundry additive
garment donning Turn down the top of the sleeve so it’s folded over itself.
Pull the sleeve over your hand until the end of the sleeve is at the pictured position on the wrist.
Gently pull the rest of the sleeve evenly up over the arm to the armpit. Make sure the sleeve is equally spread over the whole arm and that there are no constrictions or wrinkles.
TO REMOVE SLEEVE, hold the top of the cuff and pull down until it slips off your hand. 11
PEACOCK
12
sleeve + gauntlet
new arrivals deco
hummingbird
flutter
daisy tan
daisy fair
daisy dark
13
solid colors bei chic
fuchsia
mocha
onyx
white
14
crystal swirl & ribbon available on any solid color
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CURRENTS 16
sleeve + gauntlet
geometric anna gray
damask
damask bei chic
damask fuchsia
damask mocha
sapphire
diva dots
stella charcoal
stella navy
warrior blue
warrior purple
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giving back Sales for items below contribute to Young Survival Coalition, Living Beyond Breast Cancer and the Conference for Young Women Affected by Breast Cancer (C4YW). The Hospital sleeve & gauntlet benefit the Lymphatic Research Foundation. Sales for the items on the facing page contribute to Crickett’s Answer for Cancer. c4yw beige
c4yw pink
inked
hospital
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giving back liz lange
cosmos
interstellar
starburst
supernova
19
P U R P L E PA I S L E Y sleeve + gauntlet
20
paisley black paisley
blue bandit
marakesh
namaste
vercache also available in white vercache
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S TA R R Y N I G H T
22
sleeve + gauntlet
G R E AT WAV E
sleeve + gauntlet
23
floral bali night
bali sand
bali sunset
bloomin’ betty dark
bloomin’ betty light
moonlight
24
chloe
nirvana
nouveau
primrose
floral romantic rose
sweet pea
tattoo blossom
tranquility
zahara
25
tattoo bodhi beige also available in mocha
lotus dragon tattoo
south pacific
viva vida
wrapture
26
DAHLIA
sleeve + gauntlet
27
lace darling dark
darling fair
midnight lace
shadow
28
D A R L I N G TA N
sleeve + gauntlet
29
SUNBURST
30
sleeve + gauntlet
abstract butterfly meadow
camouflage
camouflage pink
denim diva
facets
firefly blue
firefly gray & yellow
firefly purple
firefly seafoam green
luna
neon glow
spice
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into the wild featherie
peacock
serpentine
S TAY I N T O U C H SI G N U P F O R OUR MAILING L IST: lymphedivas.com/mailinglist.asp L I K E US ON FACEBOOK: facebook.com/lymphedivas F OLLOW US ON TW ITTER: twitter.com/lymphedivas PI N WI T H US ON PINTERE ST: pinterest.com/lymphedivas F I ND U S O N TUMBLR: lymphedivas.tumblr.com
SPECIAL THANK YOU We couldn’t have done this catalog without our amazing models, these lovely ladies are breast cancer survivors and real-life divas. Many thanks to Linda, Laurie M., Paula, Laurie R., Jeanette, Bonnie, Olade, and Rachel.
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L E O L E O PA R D
sleeve + gauntlet
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SERPENTINE
34
sleeve + gauntlet
INDEX D ESI GN NA ME
PA G E
DE S I G N N A M E
PA G E
anna gray
17
liz lange
bali night, sand, sunset
24
lotus dragon tattoo
bei chic
14
luna
31
black paisley
21
marakesh
21
bloomin’ betty dark, light
24
midnight lace
28
blue bandit
21
mocha
14
bodhi beige
26
moonlight
24
butterfly meadow
31
namaste
21
c4yw beige
18
neon glow
31
c4yw pink
18
nirvana
24
camouflage
31
nouveau
24
camouflage pink
31
onyx
14
chloe
24
peacock
12,32
cosmos
19
primrose
24
crystal ribbon
15
purple paisley
20
crystal swirl
15
romantic rose
25
currents
16
sapphire
17
dahlia
27
serpentine
daisy dark, fair, tan new!
13
shadow
28
17
south pacific
26
spice
31
damask bei chic, fuchsia, mocha darling dark, fair, tan
28,29
19 8,26
32,34
deco new!
13
starburst
19
denim diva
31
starry night
22
diva dots
17
stella charcoal, navy
17
facets
31
sunburst
30
featherie
32
supernova
19
firefly blue, gray, purple, green
31
sweet pea
25
flutter new!
13
tattoo blossom
25
2,14
tranquility
25
great wave
23
vercache
21
hospital
18
viva vida
26
hummingbird new!
13
warrior blue, purple
17
inked
18
white
14
interstellar
19
wrapture
26
zahara
25
fuchsia
irises leo leopard
cover 33
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