Writing this blog is an outlet and a living road map of the journey I am on. A journey in which I know I am not alone. I have heard from so many women whose stories could be my story. So despite a constant stream of doubt and fear I am going to leap anyway. Please proceed with kindness and desire to understand. 

There was life before lipedema, and there is life beyond lipedema. Presently I am on a journey to advocate for access to healthcare from the Province of Manitoba for treatment of my condition. Armed with persistence that is seldom matched and a passion for women’s health (common amongst us Labour and Delivery nurses) I aim to share the steps of my journey. 

If you have been diagnosed with/or suspect you have lipedema welcome! To those reading not affected with lipedema thank you in advance for proceeding thoughtfully. 

What is Lipedema? 

Lipedema is a loose connective tissue disease predominantly in women identified by increased nodular and fibrotic adipose tissue on the buttocks, hips and limbs that develops at times of hormone, weight and shape change including puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Lipedema tissue may be very painful and can severely impair mobility. Non-lipedema obesity, lymphedema, venous disease, and hypermobile joints are comorbidities. Lipedema tissue is difficult to reduce by diet, exercise, or bariatric surgery. – Standard of Care for Lipedema US