Coalition Voice

Caring for the Whole Person – Focusing on Oncology Rehabilitation, Lymphedema and Lipedema Care

By Melissa Clark, MS, OTR/L, CLT

For more than 20 years, I have worked as an occupational therapist helping people rebuild functional independence at every stage of life. My work took on new meaning when I received my own breast cancer diagnosis 10 years ago. As a breast cancer thriver, I understand firsthand the physical, emotional and cognitive toll cancer treatments can take on a person. That experience led me to shift my clinical focus, dedicating the most recent chapters of my career entirely to oncology rehabilitation, lymphedema and lipedema care.

It has been my privilege to serve the breast and gynecologic cancer community. My connection to the Breast Cancer Coalition runs deep. Ten years ago, as a breast cancer patient, I participated in many of the wonderful programs the Coalition offered. The Breast Cancer Coalition is a cornerstone of support in our region, and I am proud to now give back as a program facilitator for Surviving and Thriving on Aromatase Inhibitors and for the Lymphedema-Lipedema Discussion Group.

Through my private practice, Clark Cancer & Lymphedema Therapy, my mission is to empower people to live life to the fullest. My goal is not simply to treat symptoms; it is to help you regain functional independence so you can return to what you love. True healing goes beyond surviving – it means caring for the whole person by addressing the physical, psychosocial and cognitive effects that cancer, lymphedema and lipedema can have on a person.

Understanding Lymphedema and Lipedema

Lymphedema is one of the more familiar challenges cancer patients and survivors may face. It occurs when the lymphatic system is compromised by surgery or adjuvant treatments (treatments following surgery), causing fluid and proteins to build up in a part of the body. Without intervention, that area may continue to swell over time.

Lipedema is a common but under-recognized condition characterized by a bilateral, symmetrical buildup of sometimes painful adipose tissue (fat) in the legs and sometimes in the arms and lower trunk. Both conditions can feel overwhelming and isolating. Please know this: they are manageable, and you do not have to navigate them alone.

Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is the current gold standard of conservative treatment for these conditions.

Complete Decongestive Therapy includes:

• Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) – a gentle, specialized skin stretch technique that reroutes and encourages lymphatic fluid to move out of a congested part of the body.
• Compression garments and bandaging can be daunting to navigate. I help patients find the right fit, style and compression level to reduce or maintain limb volume comfortably.
• Therapeutic exercise. Movement is medicine. Together, we build safe, individualized routines that stimulate the lymphatic system without overtaxing the body.
• Skin care and education. Practical knowledge to protect your skin, prevent infection, and manage symptoms confidently at home.

Managing lymphedema and lipedema well means knowing that a community stands behind you. That is why I am so committed to the Lymphedema-Lipedema Discussion Group here at the Coalition. I want to personally invite you to join us. This group is an open, welcoming, and safe space for anyone experiencing – or at risk of experiencing – lymphedema or lipedema. Whether you are newly diagnosed, have managed swelling for years, or simply want to learn about risk-reduction strategies, there is a seat at the table for you. We share resources and celebrate victories together.