Featured Member of the Month (Jul. 2021): Brandy McKeown

Brandy McKeown, OTR, CLT LANA, CLWT, Instructor, is a 20+ year specialist in treating Lymphedema and Wound Care in South Georgia. She is Director of Lymphedema at Rehab Services and successfully manages multi-location clinics, where she started each lymphedema program from scratch. In addition, she has helped support several new clinic startups, consulted those with existing programs, and most recently has been working with vein clinics seeking to add profitable lymphedema programs to their existing practice. Brandy is currently serving as co-chair of the LIR (Lymphatic & Integumentary Rehabilitation) of AVLS (American Vein and Lymphatic Society). Brandy was recently named CEO of ILWTI, allowing her to further her passion for leading, teaching, and consulting with professionals desiring higher education and training in the field of Lymphedema and Wound Care.

How and why did you start practicing in the field of vein care?

My passion for lymphedema began 22 years ago on one of my college fieldwork rotations. I worked under an OT who was lymphedema-certified, and my eyes were opened! I fell in love with the ability to treat patients that so desperately needed my help. After becoming lymphedema-certified 20 years ago, I realized how few therapists there were treating this condition and it even further heightened my love and passion for not only treating these patients but also ensuring that other therapists could share the same passion.

When you are not at work, how do you spend your time?

I love to travel with my family. I have a 15-year-old daughter and a 10-year-old son who love to travel as much as my husband and I do. The beach and the lake are where we spend most of our spare time.

How long have you been a member of the AVLS and why did you decide to join?

I have been a member of AVLS since 2019. I joined when AVLS began incorporating the lymphatic and integumentary rehabilitation aspect.

In what ways has the AVLS helped you as an Allied Health professional?

I have worked with two vascular surgeons over the past 15-20 years who have been extremely supportive of lymphedema treatment and lymphatic medicine overall. When I joined AVLS, I realized how many more amazing vascular surgeons there are with a passion for supporting lymphedema treatment and management. It is wonderful to be part of a society that promotes and has a passion for the betterment of all conditions associated with lymphedema and vascular medicine. 

Any advice for providers new to the field?

As a therapist, I encourage you to get out and discuss lymphedema with the physicians in your community. Be sure to build a relationship with your local vascular medicine practice. It is a partnership that can help more patients than you can ever imagine!

What resources does the AVLS provide that would benefit them?

AVLS is an amazing network of physicians and therapists with like-minded passion. Being able to connect with other professionals for the betterment of lymphedema and vascular medicine is invaluable.