Supportive Lymphatic Care in Calgary: What You Can Do While You Wait
If you or someone you love has been referred to Calgary’s Lymphedema Clinic, you may already know: the wait time for specialised care can be long—sometimes up to two years.
During that time, it’s common to feel uncertain or overwhelmed. Swelling, discomfort, and changes in mobility don’t always wait until appointments become available.
At Same Stars Wellness, we believe in working alongside the care you’re waiting for—offering safe, knowledgeable support to help you feel more comfortable, informed, and empowered in the meantime.
We also encourage you to explore resources from the Alberta Lymphedema Association, which offers excellent information, advocacy, and support across the province.
💧 What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a buildup of lymphatic fluid in the tissues, often caused by damage or blockage in the lymph system. It can be chronic, progressive, and painful—and it most often affects the arms or legs.
Lymphedema may occur after cancer surgery, radiation, or other trauma to lymph nodes. But it can also be congenital or develop without a clear cause. Left untreated, it can lead to discomfort, swelling, skin changes, or even infection.
🌟 What Can You Do Right Now?
While you're waiting for formal care through Calgary’s Lymphedema Clinic (CALS), there are gentle, supportive strategies you can begin today:
✅ Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
Our certified therapists at Same Stars Wellness offer gentle lymphatic drainage, a specialized massage technique that helps move fluid through the lymph system, reducing swelling and supporting circulation. MLD is one of the most evidence-supported treatments for lymphedema—and it’s safe when provided by trained professionals.
✅ Education & Self-Care Coaching
We teach you how to care for your skin, manage swelling, and avoid complications like cellulitis. You’ll leave with small, doable tips that can help you feel more in control of your symptoms—because you deserve answers and support, even before your hospital consult.
✅ Compression Garment Support
We can help with compression garment fittings and offer guidance on Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) coverage. Learn more about garment funding and support through Alberta Lymphedema Association.
✅ Accessible, Compassionate Care
Our clinic is fully accessible, trauma-informed, and designed with comfort in mind. We also offer mobile treatments for those who are home-bound or dealing with significant mobility limitations.
💛 You Don’t Have to Wait Alone
At Same Stars, we believe care should be accessible—not just eventually, but today. Our goal is to bridge the gap between diagnosis and full support, so you can stay ahead of your symptoms and feel better while you wait.
Ready to take the first step?
Book your appointment or reach out to see how we can help.
🔗 Helpful Resources
Calgary Ambulatory Lymphedema Service (AHS)
