My story begins with a breast cancer diagnosis in September of 2006, followed by surgery and then 4 months of chemotherapy.
About 2 months after chemotherapy, I noticed some uneven inflammation and swelling in the inner forearm area. Lymphadema was ruled out and 10 days of high dose “Motrin” was prescribed by my surgeon.
Eventually, these conditions subsided and all seemed well for about a year. Then, after a long day of shopping in Manhattan this past summer, I noticed that my hands and arms had once again become slightly swollen. This time the swelling seemed more severe in my hands, especially the fingers… the swelling again subsided, but I had a third recurrence about a month later and I knew this had to be addressed.
I had an appointment already in place with my oncologist and planned on discussing a course of treatment with her. I was very concerned that I might be dealing with a precursor to lymphadema.
When I arrived for my appointment, I noticed a sign for Dr. Stram’s office in the NYOH building, where I see my oncologist… this seemed like a “good omen” since I planned to discuss the possibility of using acupuncture to treat the recurring swelling.
When I asked my doctor about Dr. Stram’s practice, she was very enthusiastic about my wish to pursue alternative healing as a part of my continuing recovery.
I knew I was in the right place from the first moment I met Dr. Stram.
He took time to listen to all my concerns and asked many questions about my health, lifestyle and my cancer therapies. We agreed upon a course of action to complement my regular oncology visits. That very first day I was even able to begin a course of acupuncture treatments with Rebecca… I can actually feel the energy flowing through my body after one of her treatments.
I know for a certainty, that the combination of acupuncture, nutritional guidelines, vitamins and supplements have greatly improved my condition as well as my overall health… I also feel more in control, knowing that I can continue to improve without relying on toxic chemicals.
I am so very pleased with the results I have had after just 6 short weeks… and I continue to improve.
I feel more confident in my recovery, now that I have Dr. Stram and his terrific staff on my team to help keep me on the path to wellness.
