February’s Lipedema Patient Roundtable focused on two deeply connected themes: intentional self-care and the power of collaborative, respectful healthcare. The evening opened with an honest acknowledgment that life with chronic illness is often busy, painful, and overwhelming—which is precisely why creating moments of calm is essential, not indulgent. A powerful reminder surfaced early on: self-care doesn’t have to be perfect or time-consuming to be meaningful; even fifteen minutes counts. The group reflected on a beloved community mantra coined by the late Pattie Cornute—“all or something”—a reminder that small, consistent steps are more sustainable than waiting for ideal conditions.
Participants shared practical ways they integrate care into daily life, from morning self-MLD and breathwork to using supportive tools like the Finch app for gentle accountability. Others reframed treatment time, including their Lympha Press sessions, as intentional “me time”—a chance to rest, listen to music, read, or simply be still without guilt. Mindset shifts also emerged as a theme, particularly moving from “I have to” to “I get to,” transforming routines into acts of self-respect rather than obligation.
A significant portion of the discussion centered on strengthening patient-provider relationships. The consensus was clear: people living with lipedema are experts in their lived experience, and healthcare works best when it is collaborative rather than compliance-driven. Special guest Emma Cloney, President and Co-Founder of Lipedema Canada, emphasized the importance of clinicians addressing bias, avoiding assumptions about weight loss goals, asking consent before discussing lifestyle changes, and clearly defining treatment outcomes. Participants underscored that lipedema is distinct from obesity and that oversimplified recommendations can cause harm. The conversation also highlighted real-world barriers that affect adherence to care plans, including cost, disability variability, neurodivergence, mental health, and access to resources—factors that deserve empathy and consideration on both sides of the exam table.
The group also explored practical advocacy strategies for navigating challenging medical encounters, such as redirecting conversations to the reason for the visit, asking clarifying questions about medical relevance, requesting documentation when care is refused, and seeking compassionate providers when possible. At the same time, there was recognition that changing providers is not always feasible, making preparation and communication tools especially valuable.
As always, the evening closed with community connection at its heart. Members shared victories, struggles, and encouragement—reminders that feeling seen and supported directly impacts both emotional and physical well-being. Announcements included an invitation to the first Lipedema Canada Conference in September 2026, designed to bring patients and global experts together to advance care and accessibility.
The overarching message was simple but powerful: no one has to navigate this journey alone, and even small steps toward care of body, mind, and relationships can create meaningful change.
Many thanks to our special guest and the anchor panelists in attendance:
- Jenny Beaujean (@Jenny_Beaujean)
- Siouxie Boshoff (@lipedema.living)
- Angelique Charles (@TheLippyButterfly)
- Emma Cloney (@lipedema_canada)
- Linda Anne Kahn (@lindaannekahn)
- Brenda Viola (@BrendaViola_ViciCommunications)
To learn more about Lympha Press and our therapy that’s easy to live with, visit www.lymphapress.com.
This Roundtable was originally recorded live on February 18, 2026, 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.