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Medically correct fashion for lymphedema.
Citation preview
®
AUTUMN / WINTER 2013
RACHEL LEVIN TROXELL
1970-2008
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The story of LympheDIVAs began in Philadelphia when two young breast cancer
survivors, Rachel Troxell and Robin Miller, developed lymphedema, a side effect
of breast cancer treatment that can cause permanent swelling in the arms. Their
physicians and lymphedema therapists recommended a compression sleeve as the
most effective way of controlling the swelling. When they researched the options
for the sleeve they found that the only ones available were rough textured, heavy,
hot, beige, and bandage-like. Frustrated and dismayed over the lack of options
they had for compression sleeves, Robin and Rachel met with Kristin Dudley, a
fashion designer, to discuss their idea of creating a more elegant and comfortable
compression sleeve.
In late 2007, Robin left the company. Soon after, Rachel discovered her breast cancer
had returned. While she was being treated, she continued building LympheDIVAs,
which brought her much joy during a difficult time in her life. Rachel died January
22, 2008, at the age of 37. Her determination and compassion to improve the lives of
breast cancer survivors is very much ingrained in the spirit of LympheDIVAs.
Today, LympheDIVAs’ products can be found in retail locations nationwide and
internationally. At Rachel’s request, her father Dr. Howard Levin and her mother,
Judy Levin took over the responsibility of running the company which their daughter
helped found. In August of 2010, Rachel’s little brother, Josh Levin, joined the
company and is now running it with his parents. They all hope that LympheDIVAs’
compression apparel will continue to inspire breast cancer survivors everywhere to
feel as beautiful, strong and confident as Rachel was.
OUR STORY
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STUNNING INNOVATIONS
MOISTURE-WICKING
Our products include moisture-wicking
technology, which pulls sweat away
from the body, cools the arm and is
fast drying!
ALOE VERA
A fabric finishing process which adds
unscented aloe vera moisturizing
micro-capsules for added softness
and skin protection.
FINE KNIT
A fine knit construction producing
a smooth surface, lightweight, and
replicating a ‘second skin.’
GRADUATED COMPRESSION
All garments are available in
Class 1 (20-30mmHg) and Class 2
(30-40mmHg) compression.
We set out not to just make a
pretty sleeve but also one that is
more comfortable and improves the
managment of lymphedema.
360° STRETCH
All of our garments are knit with 360°
stretch, which allows our garments to
stretch as your arm bends and flexes.
Prevents binding at the elbow.
We are dedicated to creating medically
correct compression apparel for the
savvy breast cancer survivor with
lymphedema that will inspire her to
feel beautiful, strong and confident.
The medical requirements are obvious,
but the emotional aspect of healing is
important and often ignored. A positive
mindset can often lead to a much
better physical response.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
A FASHION STATEMENTWe believe that getting the hottest
and latest patterns to our customers
is important. Our team studies the
newest trends in patterns and colors
by scouring the runways, attending
trendspotting trade shows and
sourcing fashion publications. Just like
the fashion power-houses in New York,
London, Milan, Paris and Tokyo, we
introduce new patterns biannually
in the Spring and Autumn.
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FUCHSIA Sleeve and Gauntlet
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LympheDIVAs works with physicians, physical therapists, nurses, nurse
practitioners and physician assistants to assure our customers that the products
we design are medically correct. Our medical advisory team oversees the
development of our products and helps us monitor product testing.
ANDREA L. CHEVILLE, M.D.
Medical School: Harvard Medical School
Fellowship: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Dr. Cheville currently is Senior Associate Consultant
at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, specializing in
cancer rehabilitation, lymphedema, and survivorship.
Until August 2006, Dr. Cheville directed the Cancer
Rehabilitation and Lymphedema Programs at
the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania in
Philadelphia, PA. A leader in the field of cancer
rehabilitation, pain control and symptom management,
Dr. Cheville has published papers on cancer rehabilitation and is a nationally
recognized expert in this field. Lymphedema is a primary focus of Dr. Cheville’s
research, and she serves on the Medical Advisory Committee of the National
Lymphedema Network and is a board member of the Lymphology Association of
North America. Dr. Cheville has been recognized in Philadelphia Magazine’s May
2002, 2005, 2006 Top Docs issue, and has been recognized by Best Doctors in
America 2005-2006.
HOWARD A. LEVIN, M.D.
Medical School: New York University, 1966
Dr. Levin is the father of the founder of LympheDIVAs,
LLC, Rachel Levin Troxell. Following graduation from
Medical School, he was trained in Internal Medicine in
the Harvard training program at Beth Israel Hospital,
Boston, Mass. He spent the next four years as a post
doctoral fellow in Immunology and Rheumatology at
Harvard University and a year at the Weizmann Institute
of Science in Israel as a Fullbright Scholar. In 1972 he
then received an appointment as Senior Staff Fellow in
the Immunology Department of the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Maryland.
From 1976-1988 he practiced Internal Medicine and Rheumatology and served as
Medical Director of the 70 physician San Jose Medical Group in San Jose, California.
MEDICAL ADVISORS
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JEANNETTE ZUCKER
Graduate School: New York University, 2002
Jeannette Zucker holds a clinical Doctorate in Physical
Therapy from New York University. She received
her lymphedema certification from Klose Norton
School of Lymphatic Therapy in 2002 and started her
career at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
(MSKCC) in 2003. In 2004, Jeannette assisted with the
establishment of the lymphedema therapy program
at the main campus and as the Lymphedema Clinical
Specialist she continues to work on further developing
the service to promote the awareness, early diagnosis and risk minimization of
lymphedema. She leads the support groups for patients who have, and are at
risk, for lymphedema through the Post-Treatment Resource Program. Jeannette
received her LANA certification in 2005 and was awarded the Susan G. Komen
Conference scholarship by the National Lymphedema Network (NLN) in 2006. In
2007, she helped to develop the Lower Extremity Lymphedema Prevention Program
for MSKCC and joined the Scientific Committee of the NLN. She continues to
serve on the committee and provide lectures at the biennial NLN Conferences. In
2009, Jeannette joined the faculty of the Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy. In
2010 she joined the editorial board of the NLN’s electronic newsletter E-Channel.
Her current focus on treatment intervention is edema management regardless of
etiology, scar management, and improving facial mobility and skin mobility through
manual lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, compression therapy, kinesiotaping
and laser therapy.
After several years as a medical director for an insurance company he spent 10
years as a management consultant and partner with Milliman, USA, an Actuarial
and Management Consulting Company. Dr. Levin is currently vice president and
chief medical officer for LympheDIVAs.
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ABOUT LYMPHEDEMAWHAT IS THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM AND LYMPHEDEMA?The lymphatic system is structured like a web, occasionally draining into small
lumps or nodes that filter the lymphatic fluid. The system works through the
pumping power of the body’s muscles. The muscles contract, increasing pressure
within the lymph vessels, which causes the fluid to move. A series of one-way valves
ensure that the fluid moves in the right direction. Lymphedema, the build up of
protein rich fluid in the subcutaneous interstitial compartment occurs when either
lymph fluid is impeded from flowing through the lymph vessels and lymphatic
system or there is an excess of fluid that exceeds the carrying capacity of the lymph
system. It collects in the subcutaneous and deep tissues causing swelling of the
affected area and predisposes to chronic inflammation.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN LYMPHEDEMA OCCURS IN PEOPLE AFTER BREAST CANCER TREATMENT?When a sentinel node is removed, a number of nodes are removed, or if the nodes
receive radiation therapy, the body is at risk for lymphedema. The loss of lymph
nodes and vessels can result in lymphedema in the arm or other parts of the body.
The amount of fluid collection is variable and at this time, unpredictable because of
the variability of the insults and the lymphatic system itself.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BE AWARE OF THIS?Any event which stimulates the formation of increased protein fluid and floating
cells between the cells in the arm (such as infection, trauma and sun burn) or slows
the flow of lymph fluid out of the arm (such as have blood pressure taken with
a cuff) can increase the chance of fluid accumulating in the arm. Since no truly
curative therapies exist, medical intervention is focused on preventing occurrences
and recurrences and is most often dependent on patient self management and
adherence. Prolonged or severe fluid build up can result in a more severe and
permanent lymphedema.
AN ENHANCED MEDICAL DEVICELymphedema is managed and treated through a variety of therapies. Compression
armsleeves and gauntlets are one such therapy. LympheDIVAs armsleeves and
gauntlets are Class 1 (20-30mmHg) and Class 2 (30-40mmHg) medical devices.
Like other armsleeves they utilize graduated compression, the highest pressure is at
the wrist and hand that acts as a pump to encourage the lymph vessels to push the
lymph fluid toward the body. LympheDIVAs garments are regularly tested. Patient
compliance may also be improved through the increased comfort
and style of LympheDIVAs garments.
A FASHION STATEMENTAt LympheDIVAs we believe that a majority of sleeves that were prescribed
and purchased were worn a few times and then hidden in a drawer because of
distaste and discomfort. Knowing that the compression sleeve cannot reduce the
chance of occurrence or swelling by remaining in the drawer, LympheDIVAs has
made lymphedema management easier by adding a dose of fashion and having
superior comfort. A LympheDIVA enjoys wearing her sleeve because it is stylish,
fashionable and fun. Women are more likely to derive the benefits of the garments
simply because they are more likely to wear them and less likely to suffer from
complications!
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WHO SHOULD WEAR A LYMPHEDIVAS SLEEVE?LympheDIVAs sleeves are appropriate for those with mild to moderate lymphedema,
or for those at risk. Our Class 1 sleeves are not recommended for severe swelling.
WHEN SHOULD A SLEEVE BE WORN?We recommend consulting with a doctor or lymphedema therapist in order to find
the most appropriate therapy for each individual. All women who are at risk for
lymphedema or who have mild to moderate lymphedema should, at a minimum,
wear their sleeve and gauntlet during air travel and while exercising.
GUIDELINES FOR REDUCING THE RISK OF LYMPHEDEMA FOR THOSE WHO HAVE HAD LYMPH NODE REMOVAL AND/OR RADIATION
DO TRY TO AVOID INFECTIONHave blood drawn and shots given on the unaffected arm. Keep the skin
clean and protect it from cuts and scratches. Always carry band-aids!
DO TRY TO AVOID BURNSProtect your arm from sunburn. Use oven mitts when cooking and avoid
splash burns from steaming foods. Do not use hot tubs or saunas.
DO KEEP SKIN PROTECTEDUse moisturizing lotion and soaps that are pH balanced. Protect hands
with gloves when cleaning.
DO AVOID USING SHOULDER STRAPSCarry briefcases and/or purses on the opposite arm.
DO AVOID RESTRICTIVE CLOTHINGWearing tight jewelry on the affected arm or hand will create a tourniquet
effect you do not want. Blood pressure should be taken on the unaffected
arm or thigh when both arms are affected.
DO TRY TO AVOID MUSCLE STRAINIt is okay to do normal activities and exercise with the affected arm, but do
not overdo it! Everyone should consult with their doctor about the level of
activity that is right for them.
DO KEEP A HEALTHY DIETMaintaining a healthy weight lowers the risk for developing lymphedema.
Lower sodium intake.
DO WATCH FOR » A full feeling in your arm.
» A difference in size between the affected and non-affected arm.
» Weakness in your arm or not being able to move it as far.
» When pressing on the affected arm for twenty seconds, the impression
of the finger remains.
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SIZING CHART
HOW TO MEASUREIf possible, have a friend help you to get the most accurate measurements. Begin by
relaxing your arm and resting it on a table, bending it slightly to create a small bend
in the elbow. Your arm should not be completely straight, nor fully bent.
A. PALM For the gauntlet, you should let your fingers relax, and bring the
measuring tape so it’s just under your knuckles. Pull gently so the tape has no slack.
Record the measurement.
B. WRIST Hold measuring tape around your wrist, going over the little bone
on the outside. Pull tape to the point of gentle tension; there should be no slack,
but you should not be pulling so hard that the tape creates an indentation. Write
down this measurement in inches or centimeters.
C. MID LOWER Next, move the measuring tape up your arm so that it goes around
the thick part of your forearm. Use the same amount of gentle tension and record
the measurements.
D. MID UPPER Finally, bring the measuring tape to the upper part of your arm,
halfway between your elbow and your armpit. If you have any extra skin here,
gather it together as much as possible. You should hold the tape a bit tighter here
so that all your skin is encircled evenly.
If you are in between sizes, please consult a medical professional, professional fitter
or LympheDIVAs to ensure proper fit.
BWRIST
CMID
LOWER
DMID
UPPER
APALM
SMALL MEDIUM LARGE
A. PALM 15 – 18.7 cm 19 – 21.9 cm 22 – 26 cm
B. WRIST 14.6 – 19 cm 16.5 – 21.6 cm 19 – 23.5 cm
C. MID LOWER 17.8 – 23.2 cm 23.5 – 28.7 cm 28.9 – 34.3 cm
D. MID UPPER 21.6 – 39.4 cm 27 – 45 cm 32.4 – 50.5 cm
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GARMENT CARECaring for your garment is as easy as 1-2-3! Following the care instructions will ensure
that your garment lasts the full four to six months while retaining compression.
SLEEVE & GAUNTLET DONNING
Turn down the top of the sleeve so it’s folded over itself.
Pull the sleeve over your hand until the end of the sleeve is at
the pictured position on the wrist.
Gently pull the rest of the sleeve evenly up over the arm to the
armpit. Make sure the sleeve is equally spread over the whole
arm and that there are no constrictions or wrinkles.
TO REMOVE SLEEVE, hold the top of the cuff and pull down until it slips off
your hand.
1Place the garment
in a lingerie bag to
prevent snagging.
2Machine wash in
warm water using
a gentle detergent.
3Machine dry at
medium heat.
DO NOT DO ANY OF THE FOLLOWING
Doing any of these can potentially ruin the garment and compromise the compression.
hand wash • wring dry • line dry • dry clean
use any chemical solvent, fabric softener, bleach or any other laundry additive
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SO
LID
CO
LO
RS BEI CHIC
FUCHSIA
MOCHA
ONYX
WHITE
12
CRYSTAL SWIRL &CRYSTAL RIBBONAVAILABLE ON BEI CHIC, FUCHSIA, MOCHA, ONYX AND WHITE
13
NE
W P
AT
TE
RN
S PRIMROSE
SAPPHIRE
SOUTH PACIFIC
SPICE
ZAHARA
14
LEO LEOPARD Sleeve
15
PA
ISL
EY
PA
TT
ER
NS BLUE BANDIT
PURPLE PAISLEY
MARAKESH
NAMASTE
VERCACHE
16
WHITE VERCACHESleeve and Gauntlet
17
WIL
D S
TY
LE
PA
TT
ER
NS
VIVA VIDA
LEO LEOPARD
LOTUS DRAGON TATTOO
SERPENTINE
BODHI - Beige
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FEATHERIESleeve and Gauntlet
BODHI - Mocha
19
SHADOW
DARLING - Tan
LA
CE
PA
TT
ER
NS DARLING - Fair
DARLING - Dark
LOVELY LACE
20
MIDNIGHT LACE
Sleeve and Gauntlet
21
PA
TT
ER
NS
TH
AT
GIV
E B
AC
K C4YW PINK
GRAND KREWE
LIZ LANGE
VERSAILLES
SALES CONTRIBUTE TO THESE WONDERFUL ORGANIZATIONS
22
C4YW BEIGESleeve and Gauntlet
LympheDIVAs continues to give
back to organizations that my
sister Rachel, our founder, loved
like Living Beyond Breast Cancer
and the Young Survival Coalition’s
Conference for Young Women
(C4YW). We have also partnered
with Crickett’s Answer for Cancer to
help provide compression garments
for those that can’t afford them.
JOSH LEVINPresident, LympheDIVAs
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MOONLIGHT
FL
OR
AL
PA
TT
ER
NS
CHLOE
BLOOMIN’ BETTY LIGHT
NIRVANA
NOUVEAU
24
BLOOMIN’ BETTY DARKSleeve and Gauntlet
25
TATTOO BLOSSOM
SWEET PEA
FL
OR
AL
PA
TT
ER
NS ROMANTIC ROSE
SCARLET
TRANQUILITY
26
BALI SUNSET
BALI NIGHTSleeve and Gauntlet
BALI SAND
27
PA
TT
ER
NS
TO
MIX
AN
D M
AT
CH
DENIM DIVA
STELLA - Charcoal
STELLA - Navy
CAMOUFLAGE - Pink
CAMOUFLAGE
28
ANNASleeve and Gauntlet
29
DE
CO
RA
TIV
E P
AT
TE
RN
S DIVA DOTS
WARRIOR - Blue
WARRIOR - Purple WARRIOR - Seafoam Green
30
FIREFLY - Purple
FIREFLY - Blue FIREFLY - Gray & Yellow
FIREFLY - Seafoam Green
DAMASKSleeve and Gauntlet
DAMASK - Fuchsia
DAMASK - Bei Chic
DAMASK - Mocha
31
FIREFLY - Gray & Yellow
FU
N P
AT
TE
RN
S BUTTERFLY MEADOW
LUNA
SUNBURST
32
STAY IN TOUCH
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NEON GLOWSleeve and Gauntlet
33
IND
EX
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DESIGN NAME PAGE #
Anna 29
Bali Night 27
Bali Sand 27
Bali Sunset 27
Bei Chic 12
Bloomin’ Betty Dark 25
Bloomin’ Betty Light 24
Blue Bandit 16
Bodhi - Beige 18
Bodhi - Mocha 18
Butterfly Meadow 32
C4YW Beige 23
C4YW Pink 22
Camouflage 28
Camouflage - Pink 28
Chloe 24
Crystal Ribbon 13
Crystal Swirl 13
Damask 31
Damask - Bei Chic 31
Damask - Fuchsia 31
Damask - Mocha 31
Darling - Dark 20
Darling - Fair 20
Darling - Tan 20
Denim Diva 28
Diva Dots 30
Featherie 19
Firefly - Blue 30
Firefly - Gray and Yellow 30
Firefly - Purple 30
Firefly - Seafoam Green 30
Fuchsia 5, 12
Grand Krewe 22
Leo Leopard 15, 18
Liz Lange 22
Lotus Dragon Tattoo 18, 35
Lovely Lace 20
Luna 32
Marakesh 16
Midnight Lace 20
Moonlight 24
Namaste 16
DESIGN NAME PAGE #
Neon Glow 33
Nirvana 24
Nouveau 24
Primrose 14
Purple Paisley 16
Romantic Rose 26
Sapphire 14
Scarlet 26
Serpentine 18
Shadow 20
South Pacific 14
Spice 14
Stella - Charcoal 28
Stella - Navy 28
Sunburst 32
Sweet Pea 26
Tattoo Blossom 26
Tranquility 26
Vercache 16
Viva Vida 18
Warrior - Blue 30
Warrior - Purple 30
Warrior - Seafoam Green 30
White Vercache 17
Zahara 14
TOPIC PAGE #
About Lymphedema 8-9
Donning and Doffing 11
Garment Care 11
Medical Advisors 6-7
Our Philosophy 4
Our Story 2-3
Sizing Chart 10
Stunning Innovations 4
LOTUS DRAGON TATTOOSleeve and Gauntlet
35
7 NORTH STREET SUITE 205 PITTSFIELD, MA 01201T: 866.411.3482 | F: 267-350-9187 | W: LYMPHEDIVAS.COM
FIND A STORE LOCATION NEAR YOU WWW.LYMPHEDIVAS.COM/STORE-LOCATOR
SWEET PEASleeve and Gauntlet
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