Actress Kathy Bates says her doctor helped her turn her breast cancer diagnosis into something positive by encouraging her to become an ambassador for the Lymphatic Education & Research Network (LERN).
The "American Horror Story" actress, who underwent a double mastectomy three years ago, was angry when she developed Lymphedema, which is a build-up of soft body tissues after having the surgery, but she then decided to become an ambassador for the LERN on her doctor's suggestion.
"About three years ago, I discovered I had breast cancer and underwent a double mastectomy. After the surgery, I developed Lymphedema. I have a very mild case, but I have to wear compression garments from time to time. My doctor helped me turn my anger about having this debilitating disease into something positive.
"She told me about the LE&RN, and I've become an ambassador," the People magazine quoted Bates as saying, reports femalefirst.co.uk.
"Now when I attend social events wearing my compression sleeves, I feel less self-conscious. I want people to ask me about it. Lymphedema affects up to 10 million Americans. Hopefully, more people will come out of the shadows and talk about it," she added.
