Social media and patient advocacy in lymphoedema care: a perspective piece with the Australian of the Year, South Australian Local Hero 2022

Social media, an accessible and multifaceted eHealth modality, allows for virtual interactions and the rapid dissemination of health-related information by both patients and health practitioners. The perspective of a breast cancer survivor’s strategic use of social media for patient advocacy in lymphoedema care is explored. Monique Bareham’s 15 years of advocacy contributed to the establishment of a lymphoedema compression garment subsidy scheme in South Australia, increasing government and policy-maker awareness of lymphoedema. She was named the 2022 South Australian Local Hero for her outstanding service. Monique’s perspective on advocating through the lens of lived experience via social media offers insight into effective advocacy strategies.