Strathcarron Hospice hosts the only specialist lymphoedema clinic in Forth Valley. One of the common themes in discussions with lymphoedema and lipoedema patients is the lack of peer support. Many people have said that they do not know anyone else living with these conditions.  

Potential group activities that would encourage socialisation, symptom relief and self-management and confidence were discussed, so The Lymph Notes Choir pilot project was borne! 

Sometimes due to obvious swelling or large limbs, some people with lymphoedema and lipoedema feel self-conscious. This can become a barrier to taking part in activities. However, the 17 participants have recorded on average, a 35% increase in their mental health and mood since joining the choir in August 2021*.  

The Lymph Notes choir has also released a recording of ‘Caledonia’ to raise funds for Strathcarron Hospice. 

 Margaret-Anne Garner, lymphedema Specialist, Strathcarron Hospice said, “Before Lymph Notes Choir, many of our lymphoedema and lipoedema pilot programme volunteers had never performed outside their own shower! This was a whole new experience for them and we are grateful for their enthusiasm and support. 

 Research has found several physical benefits to singing that are particularly helpful to people with lymphedema and lipoedema. The weekly sessions were led by Soundsational Community Music and their scoring tool was used each week to monitor participants’ changes in mood and well-being. That everyone has recorded a significant increase is fantastic. We now hope to secure further funding to ensure we can continue with the choir, for the benefit of people living with these conditions”. 

The Lymph Notes 6-month weekly choir pilot project for people with lymphoedema and lipoedema was generously funded by D'Oyly Carte Charitable Trust and Arnold Clark Community Fund. This was based on an initial group of up to 20 participants in this pilot, with a view to rolling the choir out on a wider basis, if successful.  

 Visit You Tube to download a recording of Lymph Notes Caledonia. Donate to Strathcarron Hospice via www.strathcarronhospice.net/donate/donate-now/20. 

 If you would like to find out how to join our Lymph Notes choir, please get in touch. Email: [email protected]