Pennsylvania breast cancer survivors who suffer from lymphedema shared their personal stories and struggles with the U.S. Senator Bob Casey during a roundtable Friday, January 27, 2017. Together, they are fighting for Medicare coverage of lymphedema supplies like garments and sleeves.
Stage III breast cancer survivor Jeanne Schmedlen of Lemoyne (pictured in the photo on the left) lives with the condition every day. She brought her mechanical compression garment to share 
with the Senator and explain the high costs associated with lymphedema maintenance. Survivor Peggy Grove of Harrisburg (picture on the right, next to Jeanne) has spent tens of thousands of dollars out-of-pocket on sleeves, gauntlets and machines to care for her lymphedema.
Brenda Mitchell of Philadelphia (pictured on the right with Sen. Casey) also shared her story during the roundtable. She took part in a year-long clinical trial during which she was given supplies for her lymphedema. Now that the trial is over, Medicare will not cover the high costs for her garments.