In this week's episode of Lipedema Link, host Don-Ellen speaks with Karen LaVoy, who shares her journey living with advanced-stage lipedema. Karen talks about the challenges of getting diagnosed, finding the right doctor, and deciding to move forward with liposuction surgery. Karen shares her symptoms over the years like easy bruising, heavy and painful legs, and eventually arm involvement. After self-diagnosing and finding a knowledgeable surgeon, Karen received confirmation of stage 4 lipedema. She discusses the emotional toll of living with lipedema for years without proper diagnosis or treatment. Karen has already undergone multiple liposuction surgeries and has more planned. She talks about the improvements so far in mobility and pain. She also stresses the importance of skin removal so lipedema doesn't return to treated areas. In addition to surgery, Karen shares the conservative treatments that help manage her symptoms like compression garments, nutrition modifications, and staying active. This personal story provides insight into the patient perspective at later lipedema stages. Karen's resilience and advocacy is inspiring for the lipedema community. Let us know in the comments your biggest takeaways from Karen's journey. #lipedema #lipoedema #lipodema #liposuction #compressiongarments #lymphedema #chronicpain #chronicillness