From Pain to Possibility: Yajaira’s Path to Healing

Yajaira thought the hardest part of her breast cancer journey would be telling her family. She knew the treatments ahead would be grueling – chemotherapy, radiation, and multiple surgeries – but she was determined to fight. And she did, with courage and the unwavering support of her loved ones.

“I cried and cried when I was first diagnosed, and I just couldn’t imagine telling my family knowing how scared and sad they would be,” Yajaira shares. “But we got through it, and they were amazing every step of the way.”

What she didn’t expect was the painful aftermath: lymphedema in her breast, arm, and eventually her legs. Caused by fluid buildup, lymphedema is a common but debilitating side effect of cancer treatment.

Yajaira thought she was going to live with discomfort and pain for the rest of her life until she was referred to the Lymphedema Clinic at the MultiCare Cancer Institute at North Star Lodge. Last year, the clinic helped nearly 160 patients with therapies like massage, exercise, compression garments, and skin care.

“The Lymphedema Clinic changed everything,” she says. “I learned how to massage the swelling at home, and the compression sleeves mean I can live my life pain-free. I am so grateful.”

Thanks to the compassionate care and resources provided by the Lymphedema Clinic and the generosity of donors like you who help make these services possible, Yajaira was able to return to her physically demanding job, standing 10 to 12 hours a day, without pain.