<p> AimThis study focused on the impact that breast cancer-related lymphoedema has had on the lives of 20 women, who were already being treated for lymphoedema.</p> <p> MethodIt was a qualitative research study that used data gathered from tape recordings of four focus groups. The data were subsequently analysed using the grounded theory process.</p> <p> ResultsThe findings suggested that the main themes were finding information, suffering silently and counting blessings.</p> <p> ConclusionThe core category illuminated the main theme: 'Finding out information for women with breast cancer-related lymphoedema can help to ease their sense of anxiety and loss, and increase their ability to adapt to a changed life.'</p>