Our Mission
To improve the management of lymphedema and related disorders in Canada by fostering collaboration, advancing education, supporting research, and amplifying patient and clinician voices.
Our Vision
A future where every person in Canada has timely access to knowledgeable care, reliable information, and supportive resources for lymphedema and related conditions.
Our Approach
We believe that progress in lymphedema care is achieved through collaboration, evidence-informed practice, and meaningful patient engagement. CLF programs and partnerships are guided by the following principles:
- Patients are central to all aspects of care development and systems improvement.
- Education matters – for patients, health professionals, and policymakers.
- Knowledge translation helps move evidence and innovation into real-world practice.
- Collaboration strengthens impact, both nationally and internationally.
- Advocacy is essential to improving access, reducing barriers, and supporting better care.
Our Strategic Priorities
The CLF works to:
- Increase national awareness of lymphedema and its impact on individuals, families, and the health care system.
- Support best-practice care by sharing evidence-based resources, emerging research, and clinical guidance from Canadian and international sources.
- Advance education by developing and promoting learning opportunities for patients, caregivers, and health care professionals.
- Foster research collaboration by identifying needs, connecting researchers, and disseminating new knowledge.
- Strengthen community partnerships with provincial lymphedema associations and other organizations dedicated to chronic edema and related conditions.
- Promote patient voices in policy, care development, and advocacy efforts.
Our Commitment to Collaboration
The CLF is guided by core principles shared with the International Lymphoedema Framework and fellow national frameworks worldwide:
- Place patients and lived experience at the centre of our work.
- Maintain collaborative, multi-disciplinary partnerships among all lymphedema stakeholders.
- Support and share ongoing research and innovation.
- Champion implementation of evidence-based practices across the continuum of care.
- Encourage international collaboration to advance knowledge and raise global awareness.
