In this Heart to Heart conversation, Dr. Catherine Seo welcomes special guest Dr. Matthew Carmody, a seasoned internist and associate professor at Harvard Medical School, to explore the evolving understanding of lipedema and the latest medical guidelines.

Dr. Carmody shares his journey in researching and treating lipedema, emphasizing the critical role of patient advocacy and collaboration in achieving accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans. He discusses the challenges of differentiating lipedema from obesity, the importance of understanding inflammation and fluid retention, and how medical systems can improve their approach to this often misunderstood condition.

Catherine and Dr. Carmody delve into the recently updated German guidelines on lipedema, which set new standards for diagnosis and treatment. They explore the effectiveness of manual lymphatic drainage, compression therapy, and dietary interventions in managing symptoms. Additionally, they highlight the importance of mobility, whether through walking or water-based exercises, to help improve circulation and reduce discomfort.

With decades of experience, Dr. Carmody underscores the need for physicians to trust patients’ lived experiences and for individuals with lipedema to advocate for themselves within the healthcare system. This conversation sheds light on the complexities of lipedema and offers actionable insights for those navigating their own medical journeys.

Tune in to learn from Dr. Carmody’s expertise and gain valuable insights into the latest advancements in lipedema care.

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 dive into the realities of unexpected medical setbacks, resilience, and the power of reframing adversity.

Lisa had spent years preparing for lipedema reduction surgery in Germany, only to have it postponed at the last moment due to medical concerns. In this deeply personal conversation, she opens up about the shock, grief, and disappointment of having her plans abruptly halted—and how she’s finding the strength to move forward.

Catherine and Lisa explore the intersection of obesity, lipedema, and systemic medical biases, discussing the emotional and financial toll of seeking treatment. Lisa reflects on the extensive preparation she undertook, from mental and physical conditioning to financial planning, and how she’s now focusing on optimizing her health for future surgery.

Through candid reflections and heartfelt moments, Lisa reframes this delay as a 'not now' rather than a definitive 'no.' She shares her new strategy, which includes starting GLP-1 injections, intensifying her physiotherapy and manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) routine, and incorporating compression therapies. Most importantly, she emphasizes the role of self-compassion and the need to challenge outdated narratives around weight, health, and self-worth.

Lisa’s story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and the unwavering support of the lipedema community. Whether you’ve faced a similar obstacle or are looking for inspiration in the face of adversity, this episode offers powerful insights and encouragement.

Tune in to hear Lisa’s story and gain insights on navigating medical setbacks with strength and self-compassion.

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 once again by Nina Manolson, Body-Peace Coach and poet, for part two of a deep dive into transforming our relationship with our bodies. This episode continues exploring how to shift from managing and controlling our bodies to cultivating a compassionate, nurturing relationship with them.

In this follow-up episode, Nina Manolson shares her insights on the cultural expectations that lead many women to feel the need to “master” their relationship with their bodies. Lisa and Catherine discuss how this controlling mindset can create a disconnect between oneself and their body, leading to shame, self-criticism, and feelings of inadequacy. Nina reframes this concept by introducing the idea of building a "relationship" with our bodies that is grounded in kindness, care, and self-acceptance.

Throughout the episode, Catherine, Lisa and Nina dive into the power of words and how language can shift our self-perception. Nina encourages listeners to replace negative, judgmental words with those that honor and appreciate our bodies. Lisa shares a personal story of embracing her needs with a client, and how expressing her challenges with Lipedema led to a transformative moment of support and allyship.

Nina also shares her poem, "I Need to Bathe in These Words," inviting listeners to consider words that nurture their bodies rather than tear it down. Her poetic reflections encourage women to explore the language they use about themselves and create a vocabulary that promotes healing and self-compassion.

This episode offers an inspiring and compassionate dialogue that will leave you thinking differently about how you relate to your body. Tune in to gain insights on body peace, advocacy, and nurturing self-compassion. If you or someone you know is on a journey with lipedema or other chronic conditions, this conversation is a must-listen!

Mentioned in this episode:

Nina Manolson's Freebies

Body Poems by Nina Manolson

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/