In this episode of 'Stronger Than Lipedema', hosts Cindy and Kristy welcome Debra Ford, who shares her personal battle with lipedema. Debra discusses her late diagnosis, the challenges she faced growing up with the condition in rural Alabama, and her numerous lipedema removal surgeries.

The conversation dives deep into her experiences with weight loss surgery, the struggles with chronic pain, and the various treatments and strategies she has employed to manage her condition.

Despite multiple surgeries and moving across the country for better medical care, Debra's resilience and determination shine through as she continues to fight for better health and mobility.

The episode also touches on the correlation between lipedema, ADHD, and autism.

Debra emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and the personalized nature of managing lipedema.00:00 Introduction to Stronger Than Lipedema00:58 Debra's Lipedema Journey Begins03:35 Challenges and Misdiagnoses04:55 The Role of Autism and ADHD06:17 Exploring GLP Medications12:51 Weight Loss Surgery Struggles17:03 Discovering Lymphedema18:41 Fighting for Proper Diagnosis19:23 The Impact of Silicone Allergies25:29 Mobility and Osteoarthritis Issues27:45 Seeking Advanced Treatment28:26 Emotional Aftermath and Initial Struggles28:58 Exploring International Surgery Options30:25 Finding Dr. Haggerty31:14 Challenges and First Surgeries32:11 Daily Life Before and After Surgery34:42 Insurance Battles and Further Surgeries36:21 Recovery and Realizations37:07 The Brutal Reality of Lipedema Surgery41:16 Advocacy and Self-Reliance43:25 Final Surgeries and Insurance Struggles52:40 Concluding Thoughts and Next Steps

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Website is below  Kristy Dellacroce,MS,OTR/L, MLD-C

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⁠⁠⁠⁠Lipedema Advocate 856-297-7437

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Cindy Howell RN PHC MPCH

Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.withcindyhowell.com⁠⁠⁠

Lipedema advocate: 860-550-1161

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