In this Heart to Heart conversation, Dr. Catherine Seo and Lisa Duerre are joined by Michelle Jaqua, a healthcare navigator and lead of Lipedema Simplified’s Surgery Simplified Concierge Program. Together, they explore the critical aspects of preparing for lipedema removal surgery, what patients need to know, and the steps involved in achieving the best outcomes.

Michelle shares her expertise on the logistical, emotional, and practical considerations of surgery, including how the Surgery Simplified Concierge Program offers support to patients throughout their surgical journey. From the initial consultation to post-surgery care, Michelle provides invaluable insights into how to navigate the entire process. Lisa and Catherine also offer their personal reflections and experiences, bringing added depth to this important discussion.

This conversation is essential for anyone considering lipedema removal surgery or supporting someone through it.

Highlights from the Episode:

• What to expect when preparing for lipedema removal surgery
• Key considerations for selecting a surgeon and understanding your options
• The role of Lipedema Simplified’s Surgery Simplified Concierge Program in supporting patients
• Navigating pre-and post-surgical care: tips for recovery and long-term management
• Emotional and mental health preparation before surgery

Mentioned in this episode:

Lipedema Project Provider Directory: https://lipedemaproject.org/lipedema-lipoedema-lipodem-provider-directory/

Lipedema Simplified Calendar of Events:

https://lipedema-simplified.org/events-calendar/

This episode is brought to you by:

Lipedema Simplified:

https://lipedema-simplified.org/

Lipedema Project:

https://lipedemaproject.org

RLD Group:

https://rldgroupllc.com/

In this heart to heart conversation Dr. Catherine Seo and Lisa Duerre are joined by Dr. Leslyn Keith, OTD, CLT-LANA, a certified lymphedema therapist and Director of Research for The Lipedema Project. Together, they dive into the intersection of leadership, workplace advocacy, and lymphatic care, sharing insights on how to better support individuals living with hidden disabilities like Lipedema in professional settings.

Dr. Keith, who has over 20 years of experience treating lymphatic and fat disorders, highlights the importance of accessible care and ongoing research in lymphedema and Lipedema management. She also emphasizes the role of workplace accommodations and the benefits of flexible work environments for those managing chronic conditions.

Lisa Duerre reflects on her personal journey of leading in the tech industry while navigating Lipedema, offering practical insights on workplace advocacy for hidden disabilities and the critical role of well-being in leadership. Together, they explore strategies for building supportive workplace cultures that prioritize empathy, inclusivity, and mental health. Lisa also shares advice on preventing burnout, advocating for oneself, and the importance of flexibility for employees dealing with chronic illnesses.

This episode underscores the shared commitment to leadership, advocacy, and creating workplaces that work for everyone. Dr. Seo, Lisa, and Dr. Keith encourage listeners to think critically about how leaders and organizations can better support employees with hidden health challenges.

Mentioned in this episode:

Lipedema Project Provider Directory: https://lipedemaproject.org/lipedema-lipoedema-lipodem-provider-directory/

Lipedema Simplified Calendar of Events:

https://lipedema-simplified.org/events-calendar/

This episode is brought to you by:

Lipedema Simplified:

https://lipedema-simplified.org/

Lipedema Project:

https://lipedemaproject.org

RLD Group:

https://rldgroupllc.com/

In this heart to heart conversation, Dr. Catherine Seo and Lisa Duerre are joined by Shawn Bigby and Ashley Fisher, hosts of "The Lipedema Mama's" podcast.

Shawn and Ashley highlight their journey of learning about lipedema to becoming advocates themselves, in part inspired by Dr. Seo's focus on advocacy and community through her creation of The Lipedema Project and Lipedema Simplified.

This episode emphasizes a collaborative approach, celebrating the newly launched community and courses created by Shawn and Ashley. Catherine, Lisa, Shawn and Ashley discuss their commitment to providing education and fostering solidarity among those affected by lipedema. Together, they explore the importance of collaboration over competition and the importance of sharing personal stories to inspire advocacy and understanding.

The episode underscores the collaborative spirit and feminine leadership approach that drive initiatives and create resources aimed at raising awareness and empowering the 1 in 11 women worldwide living with lipedema. Shawn and Ashley along with Catheirne and Lisa celebrate a shared mission to create inclusive spaces where everyone can advocate, learn, and thrive.

Mentioned in this episode:

Lipedema Project Provider Directory: https://lipedemaproject.org/lipedema-lipoedema-lipodem-provider-directory/

Lipedema Simplified Calendar of Events:

https://lipedema-simplified.org/events-calendar/

LIpedema Simplified TRIBE Community:

https://learn.lipedema-simplified.org/tribe

Lipedema Mama’s Podcast:

https://open.spotify.com/show/4I8IKiBwjKprQURNVTrZkB?si=09fb9b1b6c8d48b8

Shawn and Ashley’s Lipedema Courses

https://lipedemacourses.com

Shawn Bigby: @the_lipedema_mama on Instagram

Ashley Fisher: @the_lippy_lady on Instagram

Lisa Duerre on Linkedin:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisaduerre/

This episode is brought to you by:

Lipedema Simplified:

https://lipedema-simplified.org/

Lipedema Project:

https://lipedemaproject.org

RLD Group:

https://rldgroupllc.com/