How we can spread the word and create change — Guess what? June is here, and it’s time to shine the spotlight on Lipedema Awareness Month. This is our moment to make some serious noise and spread the word about our condition far and wide. Throughout this month, I’ll be using this platform to share stories, knowledge, and experiences to…

In a way, Yes! I did it, and you can too. Here’s how. — This article may be controversial because the medical industry does not want you to diagnose yourself. That’s their job, not yours. However, I am part of that medical community and beg to differ. Too many women go around in circles for years, trying to find answers from doctors about what’s…

Many women don’t even know they have this condition. — Since Lipedema is purely based on clinical diagnosis. There is no imaging, bloodwork, or other medical diagnostics (yet) that diagnose this disease. A physician will diagnose the signs and symptoms of this illness. The cause of Lipedema is unknown but seems to be connected to hormones and genetics. Lipedema presents…

These identifiers made me realize I had Lipedema — When I was researching Lipedema, I didn’t know anything about the condition. I’d never heard of it as a nurse, and I’m familiar with many rare diseases. But I found out Lipedema isn’t so rare. In fact, it’s not rare at all (Well, it is rare in men). Lipedema can…

Do you have Lipedema too? — I have been battling Lipedema for years, even though I didn’t know I had it. I didn’t even know it existed. My Lipedema journey began at puberty, but it remained latent until I started menopause. Like many women, I grew larger during this hormonal part of life; I developed a…

Navigating through the medical system is exhausting work. Keep going anyway. — I spent a couple of hours today doing the footwork of following up with my medical providers. It was exhausting and it took most of my energy out of me for the day. First thing this morning, I went to my physical therapy (PT) appointment. My PT is excellent, and…

It’s a blessing in disguise — I’m the kind of person who’s used to doing it all. When I was younger, I paid my way through nursing school, had my first child while I was a junior in college, and kept going until I graduated. …

Or otherwise known as “F*** you, 2022” — I haven’t been writing or doing my passion project since my first surgery back in September. I needed to pay my bills, so I was working more than I should have been. My primary job as a case manager pays more than any article I write, and I need the…

Who wouldn't be after the year I've had? — Yesterday, I couldn't pull myself out of the bathtub. I imagined calling the Fire Department to heave my weak, naked body out of the tub and onto the bathroom floor. I even visualized myself flopping around like a fish out of water. That insight gave me the inner strength to…