The June Lymphedema Patient Roundtable was full of great questions and thoughtful discussion covering a wide range of topics, from the challenges of getting insurance approval for compression garments to managing symptoms during summer heat. The panel also addressed hair loss related to lymphedema and how it impacts different parts of the body, and how to handle curious questions about your swelling or compression.
In recognition of Lipedema Awareness Month, panelist Angela Jones shared her experience living with both lymphedema and lipedema, while lymphedema therapist Karen Ashforth offered insight into how these conditions overlap — and how they differ. The conversation also touched on Dercum’s disease, a lesser-known but related condition.
Then, to close the evening, Karen led the group in a calming reflection centered on accepting the parts of ourselves that may need a little extra love.
Thank you to our trio on the panel this month:
- Karen Ashforth, MS, OTR/L, CLT-LANA (@karenashforth_cltlana)
- Alexa Ercolano, Lymphedema Patient and Lympha Press Marketing and Communications Associate (@lymphielife)
- Angela Jones, Lipolymphedema Patient and Health Coach (@2018gethealthy)
Links and resources mentioned during the program:
- The Lipedema Foundation
- The Lipedema Foundation’s Provider Directory
- Dercum’s disease information from the Fat Disorders Resource Society
- The Lymphedema Advocacy Group
This Roundtable was originally recorded live on June 10, 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.
Lympha Press is proud to offer these monthly Lymphedema Patient Roundtables and support the lymphedema community. The Roundtables are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 8:00 PM EST. Sign up to attend any of our live webinars at https://linktr.ee/LymphaPress.