On March 3, the association Vivre Mieux le Lymphoedeme Alsace-Lorraine, co-chaired by Delphine Watieaux, organized a public medical conference in Thionville with the support of the Ladies of the Heart. The topic of the meeting? Lymphedema, a poorly known, poorly recognized disabling pathology. Since then, Delphine Watieaux has held an information stand at Thionvilloise on June 18, and has taken the road to Santiago de Compostela, between May 24 and June 3, to educate pilgrims about the pathology.
What is lymphedema?
Delphine Watieaux : “It is a lymphatic malformation, a lasting increase in the volume of an arm, a leg linked to an accumulation of lymph. When the lymphatic vessels are clogged, the lymphatic fluid cannot be drained and builds up in the tissues, causing swelling. To date, the disease can be stabilized, but there is no cure. »
Why did you choose to talk about this disease on the way to Compostela?
“First of all, it was a real personal challenge for me, getting to know myself better and accepting myself as I am, with my physical difference. Sébastien, my godfather and friend, accompanied me throughout our journey, he encouraged me and made me gain confidence. Then, the idea was also to discuss with the other walkers, the other pilgrims, to make them aware of lymphoedema. With my association T-shirt, it was easy to dialogue. RadioCamino did the rest! Word of mouth quickly spread. »
What was the hardest part of your pilgrimage?
“We traveled 200 km, with a daily average of 20 km. The first day was difficult, I had to get my body going. Afterwards, it had to do with my state of health. But at some point, we don’t ask ourselves any more questions, we go! »
What are your goals today?
“Returning to the Camino de Compostela in September, preparing for Pink October, and ensuring that the pathology gains visibility. Because it is a real chronic disease, disabling, which would affect one in 6,000 people. And since it is still not recognized, we have to pay for all our care. It is very heavy to carry. »
Contact: tel. 07 50 71 75 12 and 07 87 67 06 57 and associationavmlalsacelorraine@gmail.com
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