The holiday season can be stressful, so this edition of the Lipedema Patient Roundtable aimed to provide a respite from tension. The evening began with a grounding lipedema meditation led by guest Kristy Dellacroce, MS, OTR/L, MLD-C. The discussion explored “out-of-the-box” ways to manage stress, with panelists sharing what helps them find calm amid chaos—everything from humor and playing with a cat to aromatherapy and the comfort of a warm embrace.
When asked, “How do you manage stress?” Angelique Charles responded candidly, “Not very well these days.” Her honesty prompted an outpouring of love and appreciation from the panel and audience alike. The season isn’t always jolly, and attendees were encouraged to follow Angelique’s lead by honestly expressing how they’re feeling. Lipedema can take a significant toll on mental, emotional, and physical health, making open conversations especially important.
A new study by Dr. Jose Luis Simarro was summarized by Linda Anne Kahn and praised for offering meaningful data that patients can share with their medical professionals. The study included over 1,800 patients, and its findings strongly validate the lived experience of those with lipedema.
The study also confirmed that many patients are diagnosed later in life, a common and frustrating reality. The panel cautioned against making rushed or desperate decisions following diagnosis and emphasized the importance of researching available options, from surgery to compression therapy. Newer audience members were encouraged to ask questions and connect with support groups before making major treatment decisions. As always, lipedema care is not “one size fits all,” and listening to your own body remains a guiding principle.
Thank you to Kristy for sharing her gifts throughout the evening, which concluded with a soothing sound bath that brought a sense of “all is calm” and an opportunity for reflection on what filled hearts with gratitude in 2025.
Our panelists—adorned in glittery fashion in honor of December’s global awareness campaign #Glitter4Lipedema—are always on the nice list:
- Jenny Beaujean (@Jenny_Beaujean)
- Siouxie Boshoff (@lipedema.living)
- Angelique Charles (@TheLippyButterfly)
- Kristy Dellacroce, MS, OTR/L, MLD-C (@dellalunawellness)
- Cara Garrett (@PaleGingerPear)
- Linda Anne Kahn (@lindaannekahn)
- Brenda Viola (@BrendaViola_ViciCommunications)
This Roundtable was originally recorded live on December 17, 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.