This was my graduation photo taken in 2009. I was at my heaviest weight about 420. The other is a recent photo. I have struggled with weight my entire life. It will be a struggle for the rest of my life. I am winning the battle but It has not been an easy journey. I too have experienced weight bias along the way.
In 2009, I noticed that edema (swelling) had developed in my legs especially my right leg. I went to several physicians and they kept telling me it was due to my obesity and I needed to lose weight. One doctor finally sent me to a specialist. because he thought my veins were damages. After several tests, the specialist explained to me that I had developed Lymphedema. Lymphedema is a chronic swelling due to damaged lymph nodes. He did not blame it on my weight because various factors can cause the damage. He explained that thin individuals also suffer from this disorder. He told me with therapy and compression garments I could slow or even stop the progression. Finally, a doctor listened to me and diagnosed my situation instead of just blaming it on my weight.
