Bahumi Mhlongo, actress and daughter of seasoned entertainer Somizi Mhlongo, has been living with lymphoedema, a long-term condition that occurs when the lymphatic system isn't working the way it should, therefore causing swelling in the body's tissues. Bahumi has had the condition for years but has not been outspoken about the physical and emotional pain she has endured.
HELPING OTHERS
She said she hopes speaking about her condition will help others."The discomfort-turned-pain in my leg was severe… doing the best I can as we speak.' She said for years, she minimised the pain to avoid burdening others. "In the moments I felt this pain, I kept quiet about it."
TRAUMA RESPONSE
She explained that she often had to pretend all was well. "There's a trauma response I've had trouble breaking with regards to my leg, amongst other things, and it's this: pretending to be fine when I most certainly was not,' she added. "Sometimes, to prioritise what seems more important at the time, you're not your own doctor. If God brings attention to your health, "emotionally, mentally, and physically, "you shouldn't feel bad/responsible for addressing your well-being. Take heed. Seek help
FAITH?
If it were not for her faith, Bahumi said she would not have been able to cope. Throughout her post, Bahumi emphasised the role of faith in her healing process. "God's grace is sufficient. I felt the pain, the frustration, the battle to 'keep positive,' but He really sees us. It's easy to ask Him 'Why me?' but after all the cute answers I've heard, here's what I've partially come to: He is my healer, and my faith is in Him. His time, His way, His grace, His direction, His love.' For Bahumi, her faith in God's presence and love is unshakeable, even in difficult times.
SYMPTOMS AND HOW IT CAN BE TREATED
Medical specialists have advised that it is important to evaluate family members showing early signs such as swollen ankles, swollen feet, oedema, hyperkeratosis (when the skin becomes scaly and thickens), small blisters and bumps on the skin, and lymph fluid leaks from the skin. A diagnosis can be concluded by evaluating the history and physical examination.
