The September Lipedema Patient Roundtable went “back to school” with new ideas, practical patient wisdom, and encouragement—including a fascinating discussion about fascia health with special guest Kelly Maynard of Wildheart Wellness.
Kelly, who lives with Lipedema and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), introduced the panel to Block Therapy, a fascia-focused practice using a specially designed wooden block, sustained pressure, and intentional breathing. After experiencing the method herself, Kelly became certified and now teaches others.
Kelly described fascia as the body’s “scaffolding” and shared her personal experience of improvements in pain, mobility, alignment, and joint stability. She emphasized starting gently—suggesting newcomers can even begin with a rolled towel rather than immediately purchasing equipment.
An equally important part of the practice is slow, focused breathing and relaxation. For people living with chronic pain who may spend much of their time physically or emotionally on alert, intentionally creating moments of calm has become an important part of Kelly’s wellness journey.
The conversation expanded to hypermobility, joint instability, posture and body mechanics, with panelists emphasizing the importance of finding physical therapists and healthcare providers who understand Lipedema and lymphedema.
The group also shared practical tips for blood pressure checks, which can be painful for people with Lipedema. Several prefer a properly sized cuff, manual readings, and—in consultation with healthcare providers—using the forearm when appropriate. The larger lesson: communicate what hurts and advocate for accommodations that work for your body.
That theme of self-advocacy continued as Angelique Charles, the Lippy Butterfly, shared lessons from a recent hospitalization and rehabilitation following a severe asthma attack. She was encouraged by increased awareness of Lipedema, lipolymphedema and EDS among healthcare professionals—and by the results of clearly advocating for the care she needed.
As the panel reflected on what they’ve learned, several lessons emerged: consistency matters, listening to your body matters, and it’s okay to stop thinking about Lipedema 24/7. Do your maintenance, wear your compression, care for yourself—and then go live your life.
Kelly closed with a beautiful reminder from her own life. Each morning, she takes her coffee outside and watches hundreds of hummingbirds near her Texas home. Those quiet moments remind her to notice and appreciate what is good even when life is hard.
Every day is a gift. Find your “hummingbirds and coffee” moment—and take it.
Learn more about Kelly Maynard and Wildheart Wellness at wildheart.health.