Malcolm continued following the care plan the team had shared with him.
He said: “At first, I struggled with the stockings, but once I got used to them, I felt the difference straight away. My legs weren’t as tight, and walking became so much easier. I still wear them now.”
“When I first had the issue, I couldn’t walk 100 yards without being in excruciating pain, because I had to work harder to move – it took a toll on my breathing too.
“The treatment helped pull my life back together. I was already in recovery from alcohol addiction, then I got my legs sorted and everything just fell into place.
“I was also struggling with sleep apnoea, but after being treated at the Hospice, I went from waking up 75 times an hour to less than once an hour.
After six months, Malcolm’s Lymphoedema and venous eczema had improved so much that he was discharged from the service.
Kath Clark, Matron of Day Services at St Oswald’s Hospice, said:
“Lymphoedema is a chronic lifelong condition, but with the right treatment, support, and self-management, people can regain their independence and live full, active lives – Malcolm is proof of that. We’re so proud of how far he’s come.”
Getting his life back
With his legs feeling better, Malcolm started thinking about his overall health. He realised how much he needed a positive focus.
He explained: “I was already clean by this point, but I still felt a bit lost. Then, a mate suggested coming along to parkrun. I thought, ‘Me? Running? No chance.’ But I gave it a go.”
“That first run was a game-changer. I was a bit sheepish at first, getting clapped at as I crossed the finish line, but the sense of community was incredible.
“Everyone was so supportive. Now, the guys I run with are just lush – absolutely nuts, but lush. We push each other and just have a laugh.”
Since then, Malcolm hasn’t looked back. In April 2024, he completed his first 10K race, something he never thought he’d be able to do.
Kath Clark, Matron of Day Services, added:
