Academy-Award winning actress Kathy Bates, who underwent a double mastectomy three years ago, has credited her doctor for encouraging her to become an ambassador for the Lymphatic Education & Research Network (LERN).
The 67-year-old "American Horror Story" actress said she was angry when she developed lymphedema (a build-up of soft body tissues) after having the surgery, reported Daily Mirror.
"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," she said.
Bates, who played Madame Delphine LaLaurie on the "American Horror Story", wants more people to talk freely about Lymphedema.
"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.
