Our Mission

We are committed to improving the lives of people living with lymphedema.

Our History

We’ve been doing this since 1996. Our founders, a group of lymphedema patients and family members, responded to the absence of support services by setting up the LAO. Since then, we have expanded our scope. We have always kept the needs of people living with lymphedema front and centre. The LAO’s work continues to be made possible by our volunteers, donors and members.

The LAO started its life as the Lymphovenous Association of Ontario. We are registered with the Charities Directorate in this name. In 2010 we changed our everyday name to the Lymphedema Association of Ontario. Why? To more actively promote lymphedema education, prevention, treatment and quality of life for those with the condition.

The LAO is a founder and proud partner of the Canadian Lymphedema Framework (CLF), set up in 2009. The CLF is a member of the Advisory Board of the International Lymphoedema Framework (ILF). With partners in Ontario, across Canada and around the world, the LAO is working towards better lymphedema treatment and care for all.