Maynooth University graduate Zoë O'Sullivan has been named the Irish national winner of this year's James Dyson Award for her invention "Lymphia", a device that allows patients to perform lymphatic drainage independently.
The international competition is for engineering and design students and recent graduates, with a focus on ambitious designs that address everyday problems or global issues.
Lymphatic drainage therapy is essential for people living with conditions such as lipedema and lymphoedema.
Current solutions often rely on compression devices or professional massages with a physiotherapist.
Both can be costly, time-consuming, and typically require attending appointments outside the home.
Lymphia is a home-use device designed to empower patients to perform Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) independently.
The device uses 10mm steel balls, carefully sized to be perceptible on skin while small enough to precisely stimulate individual lymphatic vessels.
Ms O'Sullivan's inspiration began with a friend suffering from lymphoedema in their legs, for whom MLD was the only viable therapy.
Her personal experience deepened this understanding.
After undergoing breast reduction surgery, Ms O'Sullivan struggled with haematomas and fluid retention due to the complicated healing process.
For her, MLD became an essential part of recovery.
She witnessed first-hand how the condition can affect body image and self-esteem, and how compression garments, despite their effectiveness, can be uncomfortable to wear.
"I'm thrilled to have won the National James Dyson Award with Lymphia," Ms O'Sullivan said.
"It’s amazing to see my work recognised and celebrated in this way."
"Knowing that Lymphia has the potential to improve so many lives and help reduce the stigma around Lymphoedema means so much to me," she added.
Ms O'Sullivan plans to use her €6,000 prize money to fund a patent application for her design.
Lymphia will now progress to the international stage of the James Dyson Award.
The international top 20 shortlist will be announced in October, with the international winners announced in November.
