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/

In this heart to heart conversation, Dr. Catherine Seo and Lisa Duerre are joined by Susan O'Hara, founder of Legs Like Mine and a passionate advocate for lipedema awareness. Susan bravely recounts losing her corporate career due to workplace bias and a lack of understanding about lipedema management.

Catherine, Lisa and Susan share their experiences navigating corporate careers while managing lipedema. They discuss the broader implications of Susan's story, emphasizing the urgent need for education and awareness among employers about lipedema, obesity, hidden disabilities, and chronic illnesses. The conversation underscores the importance of fostering inclusive workplaces that accommodate diverse needs and promote flexible work environments.

Employers and managers are invited to tune in to gain insights from Susan, Catherine, and Lisa's experiences, along with practical advice for creating supportive workplace environments. Together, they explore strategies for challenging workplace fat biases and advocating for policies that empower employees with chronic conditions.

Join us for a heart to heart highlighting the intersection of workplace dynamics and lipedema awareness.

Mentioned in this episode:

Legs Like Mine:

https://legslikemine.com/

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

Lipedema Simplified Calendar of Events:

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

Lipedema Foundation

https://www.lipedema.org/

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 Pattie Cornute, Founder of Lipedema Fitness and an advanced stage Lipedema patient advocate. Together, they delve into Pattie's journey with Lipedema, emphasizing workplace accommodations for chronic conditions and addressing fat bias.

They explore the impact of chronic pain management strategies and the empowering #allorsomething motto, which encourages action despite challenges caused by Lipedema and Lymphedema.

They also discuss the frustration and shared experiences of misdiagnosis, highlighting the importance of awareness and education about these conditions. Learn how Pattie, Catherine, and Lisa met and uncovered their shared passion and lived experience with Lipedema, offering hope and practical advice for patients and caregivers alike.

Mentioned in this episode:

Lipedema Fitness:

http://www.lipedemafitness.com/home.html

Proposed Research Case Definitions of Lipedema:

https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/lrb.2023.0062

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 delve into the everyday realities of living with lipedema. They candidly discuss personal challenges, unexpected events, and the importance of self-care amidst busy schedules and family responsibilities. From managing lymphatic drainage techniques to balancing work and family life, Catherine and Lisa share recent experiences that shed light on the profound impact of lymphatic health on daily routines.

They reflect on the aftermath of lymphatic treatments and navigate through unexpected hurdles like family illnesses and professional commitments. Throughout the discussion, they offer practical insights and encouragement for anyone managing chronic health conditions while striving for a balanced life.

Join Catherine and Lisa as they share their journeys, providing a relatable and insightful perspective on life with lipedema. Whether you're new to the condition or seeking inspiration in your own health journey, this episode promises to inspire and inform.

Mentioned in this episode:

Manual Lymphatic Drainage ebook:

https://info.lipedema-simplified.org/mld

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 share a deeply personal journey of navigating lipedema and central lymphatics, offering insights, hope, and community support. Reflecting on the metaphor of the Northern Lights, they discuss the importance of seeing beyond surface appearances and embracing the multifaceted beauty of one's body and soul.

As they engage with the audience, including Anita and others, they explore the power of community in finding solutions and supporting each other through challenges. Dr. Catherine shares her recent breakthroughs, including finding mobile medical support and embracing a holistic approach to self-care while expressing gratitude for the support of her co-host, Lisa, and the entire community. Their heartfelt exchange inspires hope and resilience in others facing similar health journeys.

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/

Join Dr.Catherine Seo and Lisa Duerre in a heart to heart conversation about preventing burnout while navigating life with lipedema. In this episode, Catherine and Lisa share their own burnout experiences and how they each rebooted from burnout in their careers and when navigating the complexities and overwhelm that comes with lipedema.

With burnout being a significant concern, especially among individuals with disabilities, Catherine and Lisa shed light on its prevalence. According to CDC statistics, people with mobility limitations are more likely to experience obesity and related health issues, which can contribute to burnout. Through their personal stories, Catherine and Lisa emphasize the importance of self-care, asking for help, and owning one's narrative.

As they share their personal experiences and insights, they discuss the importance of self-care, asking for help, and owning one's narrative. Discover how scheduling breaks, listening to the body, and finding balance can make a significant difference in managing lipedema and avoiding burnout. Plus, listeners can learn how to contribute to the community by updating the Lipedema Project Provider Directory and supporting each other on their journey from lipedema diagnosis to healthcare.

Mentioned in this episode:

CDC Disability Statistics:

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth/pdf/disability-impacts-all-of-us-infographic.pdf

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/