Our Fundraising Initiatives

Lymphedema impacts more than 1.25 million Canadians with no ‘cures’ and limited treatments. The average medical professional simply does not have the tools or knowledge required to support and help improve the lives of their patients who are living with lymphedema. That’s where we come in.

Since our launch in 2009, the Canadian Lymphedema Framework, with the support of our provincial lymphedema organizations, has been instrumental in developing, promoting, and sharing the latest in research and education.

We proudly publish Pathways, Canada’s national lymphedema magazine, and have hosted seven national conferences across Canada. We take a leadership role in defining and promoting lymphedema education and have developed and distributed educational materials geared toward both patients and healthcare professionals. 

Our Mission

The Canadian Lymphedema Framework (CLF) will work to improve the management of lymphedema and related disorders in Canada. In collaboration with the International Lymphoedema Framework (ILF) and other National Frameworks, we will contribute to the global international advancement of lymphedema care.

About Canadian Lymphedema Framework

We are the first Canadian organization working nationally to address lymphedema concerns. A collaboration among health professionals, community based organizations, patients and industry partners to improve standards of lymphedema management in Canada. Part of an international initiative to promote research, best practice guidelines and lymphedema clinical development both in Canada and around the world.

What is Lymphedema?  (lim-fa-DEE-ma)

Lymphedema is a lifelong condition caused by a buildup of lymph fluid. This happens when the lymphatic system is either faulty or damaged and cannot function as normal. It leads to chronic (long-lasting) swelling in the tissues where the lymph flow is blocked. You can be born with lymphedema (primary lymphedema), or can develop it later in life after damaging your lymph nodes (secondary lymphedema). This can lead to lifelong disability and impaired movement without proper treatment.  Learn more about lymphedema prevalence in Canada at our website, here. 

Risk Factors for Developing Lymphedema

• all cancer survivors have a lifelong risk for lymphedema if they have had lymph nodes or vessels removed or damaged during treatment
• If you had surgery, the number, size and location of lymph nodes removed or damaged will be an important factor in the development of lymphedema 
• If you had radiation therapy or an injury, the degree of damage to your lymphatic system
• Having chronic venous disease
• Having a history of skin infections, including cellulitis
• Being overweight and/or inactive add to these risk factors