Diagnosed with lymphedema as a baby, Blanche Pepitone had her first surgery at 18 months old.

Her parents and siblings raised her to live life fully, regardless of her condition, and that has been Blanche’s lifelong credo: “You’ve got to decide how much living you want to do and do what it takes to live that life.”

Managing a little-known condition without the benefit of Google or social groups could have been a lonely road for this lymphedema pioneer. Her story includes nine surgeries and finally, a remarkable introduction to manual lymph drainage. “In three days I lost 20 pounds.” She had one of the first pumps on the market — a one-chamber unit! — and marvels at how her Lympha Press (both upper and lower extremity garments) move her lymph effectively.

COVID and quarantining interrupted her ambitious workout routine, which led to obtaining her Lympha Press. Now it’s an important part of her daily life so she can “live with and not live for lymphedema.” Blanche later discovered she also has lipedema, and the Optimal Plus is indicated by the FDA for the treatment of this condition.

Enjoy Blanche’s inspiring story!