After her own diagnosis with lymphedema distichiasis syndrome, Veronica Seneriz became a passionate advocate for improving the lives of others facing the same challenges. Her commitment to raising awareness and providing resources led her to create Lymphie Strong, an online platform that has empowered thousands of people, spanning 180 countries, through educational livestreams, support and a sense of community. This year marks its 10-year anniversary. Veronica shares what inspired her to create the platform and the success of a few participants in the challenge series, which Juzo proudly sponsors and her family leads, as part of their father's legacy in battling lymphedema.
After creating Lymphie Strong, I realized an opportunity to help individuals with lymphedema improve their quality of life through physical activity, a key component in managing the condition. I coined the term Move That Lymph to focus specifically on the power of movement for those living with lymphedema. That same year I. developed and launched the Lymphie Strong Running & Fitness Club for Lymphedema Facebook group, and the Lymphie Strong Move That Lymph Challenge Series. This dynamic and empowering initiative was designed to promote physical activity and self-care for individuals living with lymphedema. The series encourages participants to engage in regular movement—whether through stretching, walking, yoga or other exercises—tailored to their personal abilities and needs. The challenge series aims to help individuals improve lymphatic drainage, reduce swelling and enhance overall well-being. Each challenge is crafted with the understanding that lymphedema requires a thoughtful, individualized approach to exercise.
The Move That Lymph Challenge Series extends beyond physical health to include mental and emotional benefits. Participants often report feeling a renewed sense of purpose, confidence, and connection through shared experiences with others facing similar challenges. The program’s inclusive, supportive environment fosters camaraderie and accountability, making it easier for individuals to stay motivated and consistent in their efforts. By combining education, exercise and encouragement, the series embodies a holistic approach to lymphedema management, offering hope and practical tools for a better quality of life.
Today, the Facebook group is home to 3,600 members from 92 countries and has completed 57 challenges in seven years. None of which would be possible without the incredible support of Juzo USA.
The true power of Move That Lymph lies not just in its exercises, but in the stories of those who have experienced its transformative impact. I reached out to four patients who have integrated Move That Lymph into their daily routines, sharing how the program has helped them manage their lymphedema, regain their confidence and improve their overall quality of life. Their journeys serve as a testament to the power of movement and community in overcoming the challenges of living with lymphedema.
Lymphie Strong Testimonials
LuAnn Tandy, member since September 2016
My favorite challenges are the half marathons because it motivates me to move every day until I cross the finish line. The challenges inspire me to keep moving, especially on days that I really don’t want to. At 62, I plan to stay active and maintain the reduction I’ve achieved through hard work and persistence. The advice I would give to someone who is just beginning their lymphedema journey is to just start! Don’t quit exploring different activities until you find the movement that you enjoy and be sure to wear compression while working out.
Yolanda Martin, member since October 2017
I love the various fitness challenges because they make me commit to doing some kind of physical activity. I want to be able to report what I did. The challenges also show me that being active can be fun. I love to read about what others are doing to stay active. Reading other participants posts encourages me to be active and consider activities that I haven’t done before. My favorite fitness challenge is the “Hula Challenge.” When I was a child, I had a hula-hoop and challenged myself to use the it on various parts of the body including my waist, leg, arm and neck. A couple of years ago, I became acquainted with the “weighted” hula-hoop. It brought back so many fond memories of childhood and has helped to strengthen my core.
Alice Carpenter, member since May 2018
When I joined this group, I was 210 pounds (very heavy for. 5’1” frame). My lymphedema was not well-controlled. My hand stayed swollen and painful despite wearing full gloves every day, and I had two bouts of cellulitis. I would be out of breath within a minute of a workout, but I learned to slow down to a pace that didn’t kill me and remain committed, even when I wasn’t motivated. Following advice from Lymphie Strong I changed my diet, started drinking a lot more water and got consistent with a fitness routine. I’m now a healthy weight and feel better than I have in decades. Now, I can get by with only a compression sleeve. I only have to wear a glove if I’m traveling, sitting a lot or slow pace walking a lot. I enjoy knowing other people in this community are striving to reach the same goals. It’s very inspiring to get in the Facebook group and see pictures and posts of other people making strides.
Leslie Jennings, member since November 2022
I have enjoyed all the challenges. Each one makes me focus and strive in meeting whatever goal set before me. They keep me motivated and hopefully encourage others to keep moving. My advice to anyone who is just starting out at the gym or any exercise routine is, “listen to your body!” Start slowly and work your way up with the activity level. Be patient with yourself. Progress will come!
Get to know our other Juzo Champions on juzousa.com and connect with them on social! Follow us on Instagram, @JuzoCompression and Facebook to learn more about the Move That Lymph Challenges this year.