May 4, 2022
HOMER – A newly released film, “Not So Swell,” produced by Homer-based Affinityfilms, aspires to educate doctors, patients and the general public about lymphedema. The 30-minute film and a series of 16 shorter segments are now available for free viewing by Alaskans at www.affinityfilms.org/not-so-swell/. Lymphedema is a swelling in the arm, torso or legs that is caused by a blockage in the lymphatic system, which is commonly the result of lymph node removal or radiation damage following cancer treatment.
“Nearly 250 million people worldwide have lymphedema, but amazingly, even many people within the medical field are just becoming aware of it,” says Mary Katzke, owner of Affinity Films, which produced “Not So Swell.”
Katzke had breast cancer 30 years ago and recently experienced lymphedema firsthand, which inspired her to create a film, a video library and a list of online resources anyone can use to learn more. The project is sponsored by the Mat-Su Health Foundation and Alaska Run For Women. The Lymphedema Education and Research Network (LE&RN) also assisted with the project and will be sharing the film with its network. The film is available to Alaskans for free. All others can download it for $14.99.
Others involved with producing “Not So Swell” include Robyn Bjork of Wasilla. She is the founder, CEO/president and executive director of education for the International Lymphedema & Wound Training Institute and a physical therapist who is an expert in the field of wound care and lymphedema management. Leslie Moore is a certified lymphatic therapist (CLT) from Anchorage’s Anodyne Pain and Wellness Solutions who has been treating edema conditions since 2005. Moore has attended international lymphatic symposiums and met with world-renowned lymphatic specialists and surgeons to broaden her knowledge and referral sources. However, she says her best education comes from patient experiences on a daily basis.
Up to 40 percent of people who are treated for cancer end up with lymphedema. Others are born with it (although it’s a different type of lymphedema). Early detection is important because treatments can prevent severe consequences later on. With the proper treatment, lymphedema symptoms can be managed and controlled. The short clips included on the website also include staff training sessions that physicians and others in the medical field can use to inform their staff about lymphedema. Physician offices also can contact Katzke at MaryKatzke@gci.net to request a supply of rack cards that have been produced to promote the informational website and film. Speakers are available to talk to groups about lymphedema.
Affinityfilms, Inc., is a nonprofit media production company formed in 1982. The company has a long history of coordinating projects around cancer. Others have included six documentary films on cancer, many public service announcements (PSAs), wellness calendars and the photo exhibits “Alaskans in Pink” and “Pandemic Portraits”, currently exhibiting around the state. Learn more at www.affinityfilms.org.
