After years-long battle, Halifax woman gets out-of-province surgery paid for by N.S.
A Halifax woman with lymphedema who took the Nova Scotia government to court and won is now on her way to receiving life-changing treatment out-of-country, all covered by the province. Jennifer Brady, 46, is currently in New Jersey meeting with a medical team at the Institute for Lymphatic Surgery and Innovation for testing to determine the type of surgery she needs.
Brady, who has been battling secondary lymphedema as a result of having her lymph nodes removed during a radical hysterectomy in 2019, has faced years of chronic pain, swelling, and other complications associated with the condition. She has been fighting for access to care outside of Nova Scotia and was initially denied treatment by the provincial Department of Health.
After filing a judicial review against the Health Department alongside Crystal Ellingsen, another Halifax woman with lipedema, Brady and Ellingsen were deemed to have been treated unfairly and unreasonably by the province. Premier Tim Houston publicly apologized to both women and announced that the province would cover their expenses for travel, treatment, and legal costs.
Since the court’s decision, Brady has expressed relief and gratitude for the support she has received. She is no longer considering medical assistance in dying (MAID) as an option and is hopeful that the upcoming surgery will significantly improve her quality of life. The surgery is expected to relieve her chronic pain, swelling, and other symptoms, allowing her to engage in activities she once enjoyed, such as running, kayaking, and spending time with her family.
Brady’s journey serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for one’s health and not giving up in the face of adversity. With the support of the legal system and the province, she is now on the path to receiving the treatment she desperately needs. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact that access to proper healthcare can have on an individual’s well-being.
