The October Lipedema Patient Roundtable focused on Breast Cancer Awareness Month, welcoming Dr. Molly Sleigh, one of the authors of the Standard of Care for Lipedema in the United States and an expert in both breast cancer and lipedema, to the panel.
Dr. Sleigh discussed how the daily, chronic effects of lipedema can sometimes mask other health conditions, delaying diagnosis and treatment. She encouraged patients to pay attention to new or changing symptoms rather than dismissing them as part of lipedema.
Linda-Anne Kahn shared insights from her clinical experience, noting that many of her patients taking GLP-1 medications have seen significant weight loss—and those on tirzepatide often report reduced inflammation as well. However, progress can vary. She emphasized the importance of dietary choices, advising patients to limit processed and ultra-processed foods. Citing a new study on the neurobeachin (NBEA) gene, she highlighted emerging research linking this protein to satiety and individual response to GLP-1 receptor agonists.
For those experiencing slower results, the message was one of encouragement: celebrate non-scale victories and use all the tools in your toolbox. Cara Cruz and Jenny Beaujean both noted that, even with many pounds and inches lost, their Lympha Pants remain an important part of their self-care routine.
Keeping with tradition, the panelists donned Halloween costumes—and love was in the air as the countdown to Cara’s upcoming wedding began. Jenny shared a moving poem about the constant planning and adjustments required when living with lipedema, resonating deeply with attendees. One participant described the condition as a “whole-body migraine,” underscoring the need for understanding and support.
A new visitor summed up the evening perfectly in the chat: “I am in tears. You people really get me.” It was a powerful reminder of why these Roundtables exist—to remind patients they are not alone.
Thank you to our amazing panelists:
- Jenny Beaujean (@jenny_beaujean) as Amelia Earhart
- Siouxie Boshoff (@lipedema.living) as a Scientist
- Angelique Charles (@thelippybutterfly) as Pale Ginger Pear
- Cara Cruz (@palegingerpear) as Mrs. Garrett from The Facts of Life
- Linda Anne Kahn (@lindaannekahn) as a Skeleton
- Molly Sleigh, OTD, OTR/L, CLT-LANA (@dr_mollysleigh)
- Brenda Viola (@brendaviola_vicicommunications) as Cupid
Lympha Press is honored to support the wellness journey of the lipedema community, both through this monthly forum and through pneumatic compression therapy that’s easy to live with. Visit lymphapress.com to learn more.
This Roundtable was originally recorded live on October 15, 2025, and has been edited for time. The views and opinions expressed in this Patient Roundtable are those of the individual participants and do not necessarily reflect the official position of Lympha Press.
This video is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider with any questions about your condition or treatment.