eNewsletter November 2023

Member eNewsletter – November 2023

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Dear Members and Friends,

Welcome to the November issue of our e-Newsletter, my first as incoming President.
 
It’s been a busy month with a successful information day in Brisbane, a new evening support group holding its first meeting in Brisbane, the election of office holders by the Board following the AGM. We continue to learn and adjust with our new Association Management.

As we approach the end of the year, I’m sure we’ve all got that feeling but I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your ongoing support and to wish you all the best over the festive season.

Warm Regards

Lyn Balfour

PRESIDENT

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The LAA held its AGM on Thursday 26 October, via Zoom. Members joined from all over Australia, as we undertook the formalities of presenting reports and taking questions from the membership. The Board thanked Mia Stemm for her contribution to the LAA over the last 2 years, and welcomed newcomer, Ashlynne Pointon, from South Australia.

The new LAA Board has since met and finalised positions for the year ahead. President – Lyn Balfour (ACT); Vice President – Debbie Geyer (NSW); Treasurer – Liesl Petterd (VIC); General Board Members – Catherine Kingsford (QLD); Mary D’Elia (VIC); Ashlynne Pointon (SA); Cheryl Prendergast (VIC); Appointed Board Members – Fleur Nelson-Mayne (TAS); Kellie Thomas (SA). Berit Jardine continues to provide representation from Western Australia without being a Board Member.

Thank you and congratulations to the Board. We look forward to an exciting year ahead.

After the AGM, members were treated to a webinar from lymphoedema practitioner, Hannah Kurnadi – “Lymphoedema and Pilates”. A relaxing way to round out a lovely evening. Thank you Hannah.

INFORMATION DAY - BRISBANE

The Brisbane Lymphoedema Public Information Day was held on Saturday the 4^th of November, at Kedron Wavell Services Club, and was also live streamed across Australia. The Uff. Hon. Teresa Gambaro was Master of Ceremonies for an informative and energetic day. Thank you to our guest speakers: Bianca Elliott, Dr Jen Sanderson, Desi Carlos, Prof Sandi Hayes and Dr Amanda Pigott. We have had such wonderful feedback from the day.
 
There were 12 trade display tables to explore and learn about garments, pumps, laser, bio-impedance and more. Thank you to all our Information Day Sponsors: Haddenham Healthcare, Essity and JOBST, Medi Australia, Morris Medical, MediRent, OPC Health, Regional Health Care Group, RianCorp, Second Skin, Super Pharmacy Plus, Thuasne and Medical Rehab. The day would not have been possible without your support!

Below are some of the comments taken from our survey after the information day.

“A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved with this Open Day! Observing others facing similar circumstances demonstrates that you’re not alone (despite feeling that way at times). It’s reassuring to see the presence of support and people working towards enhancing treatment and awareness about this condition.”
 
“The amount of clinical and treatment knowledge I gained, in addition to knowing there is support and services out there. I’ve battled by myself for 3 years, without much guidance or input from others, so yesterday filled me with hope and confidence for the future.”
 
“So pleased to be part of the LAA – onwards and upwards with lymphoedema recognition, treatment and support in Australia. Thank you to all who have made this happen.”

LYMPHOEDEMA T-SHIRT & COFFEE MUG

Support Lymphoedema Awareness. Today and tomorrow are your last chance for 15% of your purchase to go towards the LAA! Searching for a Christmas gift? Perhaps you might like a “Lymphoedema and Me” Coffee Mug for your office? CLICK HERE to visit the webpage and use coupon code LYMPHAUS to ensure 15% of your purchase is donated to the LAA.

Thank you to Kara at Mount Vic and Me for her generous support and stunning designs!

SHINE A LIGHT ON LYMPHOEDEMA

March is World Lymphoedema Month and the 6^th March 2024 is World Lymphoedema Day!

The LAA is gearing up to launch our Shine A Light on Lymphoedema campaign again next year. We are arranging for landmarks across Australia to be lit up in blue, to raise awareness of lymphoedema. With over 70 structures lit across Australia in 2023, the bar has been set! Join us again in 2024. More details to come. Together we are louder, stronger, and brighter!

NODE NEWS

CHRISTMAS WISHES

SUPPORT GROUPS

The LAA is currently working on some guidelines and resources to help emerging support groups. We are keen to see new groups form, especially in States where there aren't any yet!  Stay tuned for more information.

DONATIONS

MEMBERSHIP

FOUNDATION PARTNER

Thank you to Haddenham Healthcare, our Foundational Partner, for their generous support in helping us further our mission and serve the lymphoedema community.

Disclaimer: This e-newsletter is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare professional for personalised advice and treatment options related to lymphoedema or any other medical condition. The LAA is a non-profit organisation that relies on the support of donations, sponsorships and grants. We may occasionally feature sponsored content or include promotional messages in our communications, but we remain committed to providing impartial and reliable information to our members and stakeholders.

Copyright 2023 Lymphoedema Association Australia. All rights reserved.

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