Lymphedema Shame

[blubrdfrend]

My mother died recently. She was always ashamed of my Lymphedema leg. She never wanted it mentioned. I was a young widow, with two children, when a man at work ask me out. She cautioned me to not mention my leg or medical problems to him. She didn't have to tell me how ugly it was, but she did. I don't know if the lymphedema made a difference in the way she felt about me. When she died my brother (one year older ) ask me if she had ever hugged me. I felt so sorry for him. She never hugged either of us or told us that she loved us. She never touched us except in anger. We spent over 60 years trying to make her happy. In spite of our medical problems, we need to make every hour count and thank God for this life he has allowed us to share with those that we love. We can not afford to waste the time that we have. We can't do everything, but we can do something.
Betty

[joanne johnson]

Please accept my sympathy upon the death of your mom. Perhaps she was just unable to have maternal feelings that she could express towards you and your brother. It is sad and certainly her loss. I have read many of your contributions to this forum which always showed how caring and kind you are to other people.

I know that you are not ashamed of your lymphedema and rightly so. We have to stand up for ourselves and be proud of who we are and what we can accomplish. God bless you!

[blubrdfrend]

Thank you for your kindness, although I am sometimes ashamed. I can hardly believe that I posted the experiences from my
childhood. I am a member of several organizations and groups. I have never mentioned my early family life. Something about this group.....
Betty

[patoco]

My Sympathies as well Betty.

I think my mom was ashamed of mine as well. I echo Joanne's words too.

We all have so appreciated your posts, sharing and contributions to the family here

Pat