We love seeing members of the Restore Therapy network out in the community, sharing knowledge and offering support to those navigating life after cancer. On 8th April 2025, tutor Tina Glynn did just that, teaming up with Sara Harding, Clinical Lead for Lymphoedema services at The Royal Marsden Hospital. Tina and Sara completed Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) training together more than 20 years ago. Together these two experienced specialists delivered an impactful workshop on scars and lymphatic care after cancer. The workshop was hosted by charity organisation South East Cancer Help Centre, who are based in Purley.
” I was thrilled to reunite with Sarah. Clients shared their cancer experience and the lymphoedema and scar-related issues they were dealing with. We were able to give self-management guidance and signpost to other helpful services.”
The workshop created a space for discussion and practical learning around the physical after-effects of cancer treatment, focusing on scar management, lymphoedema awareness, and tools for ongoing self-care.
What is Cancer-Related Lymphoedema? Lymphoedema can occur when the lymphatic system is damaged during cancer treatment, leading to fluid build-up and swelling, often in the limbs. It’s a chronic condition, but with early intervention and ongoing management, quality of life can be greatly improved.
Top tip: Using scar cream to keep new scars well hydrated can improve symptoms such as itching and pain. Self-scar massage help keep the scar soft and supple. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) and compression garments (which should be professionally fitted) can support lymph flow.
Tina, like many other therapists in the Restore Therapy community volunteered her time to give back to her community and support her local cancer charity. With many decades experience in cancer care, Tina appreciates the challenges faced by people going through a cancer recovery journey, and that access to information on scars and lymphoedema is not always easily available.
“The workshop was well-received, and we were presented with some beautiful spring tulips.”
The South-East Cancer Help Centre are a charity organisation who hosted the event, with a mission to help as many people as possible with, or affected by, cancer cope with their situation by providing them with a range of high quality support services including: complementary therapies, counselling, support groups and other therapeutic activities, in a caring, friendly and supportive environment.
Contact this charity if you need support after a cancer diagnosis via their website: South-East Cancer Help Centre
If you want to support people in your community after cancer surgery, why not train as a Restore Oncology Scar Specialist?
