HISTORY AND MISSION OF OUR ORGANIZATION

The Lymphovenous Association of Ontario was founded by a small group of lymphedema patients and their families in 1996.  Originally intended as a support group for patients, it has grown to provide core programs and services to lymphedema patients, those at risk for lymphedema, lymphedema treatment professionals and other health care providers.

The Lymphovenous Association of Ontario strives to improve the quality of life for people living with lymphedema by 

·  increasing public awareness and support of lymphedema

·  educating patients and health care professionals about both the risks and treatment of lymphedema

·  strengthening our partnerships with other cancer related community organizations

·  working to increase health care and insurance coverage for treatment and care for lymphedema patients

·  connecting patients to compression garment providers and lymphedema treatment therapists 

CORE PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES

Our core services include providing information and  support about lymphedema through:

·  operation of a province wide email and toll free telephone support line for patients, caregivers and health care providers

·  an annual educational conference on lymphedema - for patients, caregivers, lymphedema treatment specialists, health care practitioners and suppliers of products for lymphedema

·   a website to connect patients, lymphedema therapists, health care providers and anyone seeking information about lymphedema and our organization

·   facilitation of a monthly lymphedema support group in conjunction with Wellspring Toronto

·   a 20-page newsletter called LYMPHOVENOUS NEWS three times per year (see attachment)

FUNDING

Our organization is a registered charity (Registration No. 87165 5049 RR0001) and relies almost solely on revenue from memberships, grants and private and corporate donations.  Effective 2007, The Lymphovenous Association of Ontario donation  is proudly supported by a grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, which builds healthy and vibrant communities in this province.

Won’t you help support our efforts in raising awareness for lymphedema by donating today?

www.canadahelps.org