• Empowerment Through Experience: Cara's Lipedema Journey and Advocacy
    Jul 27 2025

    Empowerment Through Experience: Cara's Lipedema Journey and AdvocacyIn this episode of Stronger Than Lipedema, hosts Cindy and co-host Kristy discuss with Cara, known as Pale Ginger Pear on social media, about her extensive journey managing lipedema and lipo- lymphedema.

    Cara shares her personal story of discovering her condition, undergoing seven surgeries, managing post-surgical care, and adopting a sugar-free lifestyle.

    The discussion covers the emotional and physical challenges faced, the importance of a supportive community, and practical advice for others navigating similar paths.

    Cara also touches on her upcoming wedding and the importance of maintaining well-being amidst life changes.00:00 Introduction to Stronger Than Lipedema00:57 Meet Cara: A Journey with Lipedema01:44 Discovering Lipedema: The Early Struggles03:36 Navigating the Medical System04:43 The Role of Social Media in Lipedema Awareness07:44 Surgery Experiences and Challenges14:00 Documenting the Journey: The Importance of Transparency30:10 Community Support and Personal Insights32:41 Monthly Lipedema Support Meetings33:33 Personal Coaching and Consulting34:44 Navigating Social Media and Support Groups37:04 Compression Garments and Daily Life39:10 Finding Love and Support48:03 Wedding Plans and Preparations50:52 Advice for the Lipedema Community58:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Follow us on Social media!!!

    Kristy's Contact information:

    IG⁠⁠ https://www.instagram.com/dellalunawellness/

    FB Group⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1F3pseJKUd/?mibextid=wwXIfr⁠⁠⁠

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

    Sunrise Healing, LLC ⁠⁠sunrisehealingaz.com⁠

    ⁠⁠Lipedema Advocate 856-297-7437

    Cindy contact information

    ⁠FB:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/withcindyhowell⁠⁠

    Private FB Group:⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/7021999704562921⁠⁠⁠

    IG:⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/withcindyhowell/⁠⁠⁠

    Cindy Howell RN PHC MPCH

    Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.withcindyhowell.com⁠⁠⁠

    Lipedema advocate: 860-550-1161


    Top 5 Foods to Avoid for Managing Lipedema! Click there Link: https://withcindyhowell.com/checklist/


    Free surgery course: ⁠https://l.bttr.to/6cATB


    Follow Cara (palegingerpear)
    https://www.instagram.com/palegingerpear/?hl=en

    Lympha- Press Round table.

    https://youtu.be/5-rh68E9_7M

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    1 hr
  • 13 Weeks Post-Op: Cindy's Lipedema Surgery Journey with Dr. Hagopian
    Jul 20 2025

     13 Weeks Post-Op: Cindy's Lipedema Surgery Journey with Dr. HagopianIn today's episode, Kristy interviews Cindy about her experiences at 13 weeks post-op from her lipedema surgery with Dr. Hagopian, located in Atlanta, Georgia.

    Cindy shares her pre-op consultation process, the surgery, and her recovery journey. She discusses the necessity of in-person consultations, the pre-op preparation, and the importance of compression garments post-surgery.

    Cindy also talks about the decision to fly versus drive for surgery and the challenges of post-surgical swelling.

    Additionally, Cindy highlights the benefits of staying at a specialized recovery house and how it alleviated some post-op care burdens.

    The episode wraps up with insights on continuing conservative measures like anti-inflammatory diets and the necessity of self-advocacy for those struggling with lipedema.

    00:00 Introduction and Overview01:30 Details of the Surgery02:06 Pre-Op Preparations04:57 Travel and Post-Op Experience10:10 Insurance and Scheduling14:49 Recovery and Compression24:34 Surgical Techniques and Personal Experiences33:30 Navigating Post-Surgery Challenges34:43 Bruising and Unexpected Recovery Experiences36:06 Compression Garments: Tips and Tricks38:42 Finding Support and Resources41:32 Choosing the Right Surgeon46:39 Mental and Physical Preparation for Surgery52:19 Post-Surgery Realities and Expectations01:04:13 Advocating for Yourself in the Medical System

    Follow us on Social media!!!

    Kristy's Contact information:

    IG⁠⁠ https://www.instagram.com/dellalunawellness/

    FB Group⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1F3pseJKUd/?mibextid=wwXIfr⁠⁠⁠

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

    Sunrise Healing, LLC ⁠⁠sunrisehealingaz.com⁠

    ⁠⁠Lipedema Advocate 856-297-7437

    Cindy contact information

    ⁠FB:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/withcindyhowell⁠⁠

    Private FB Group:⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/7021999704562921⁠⁠⁠

    IG:⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/withcindyhowell/⁠⁠⁠

    Cindy Howell RN PHC MPCH

    Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.withcindyhowell.com⁠⁠⁠

    Lipedema advocate: 860-550-1161

    Top 5 Foods to Avoid for Managing Lipedema! Click there Link: https://withcindyhowell.com/checklist/

    Free surgery course: ⁠https://l.bttr.to/6cATB


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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • Part 2 Navigating Lipedema Surgery with Deborah Ford: Advocacy, Insurance, and Resilience
    Jul 13 2025

    Navigating Lipedema Surgery with Deborah Ford: Advocacy, Insurance, and ResilienceIn this episode of Stronger Than Lipedema, hosts Cindy continues her conversation with Deborah Ford, who shares her journey through multiple lipedema surgeries and her experience with finding a new surgeon.

    Deborah provides invaluable advice on navigating the insurance processes, advocating for oneself, and managing the emotional and physical toll of dealing with lipedema.

    She emphasizes the importance of self-love, persistence, and building a supportive community.

    This episode offers hope, practical tips, and inspiration for anyone managing lipedema.00:00 Welcome to Stronger Than Lipedema00:55 Deborah Ford's Surgery Journey02:39 Navigating Insurance Challenges04:39 Advocating for Yourself24:27 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Surgery27:12 The Importance of Support and Community29:13 Building Community Through Podcasts30:22 Finding What Works for You31:31 Diet and Lifestyle Choices32:38 Navigating Health Noise39:40 The Importance of Compression40:08 Personal Journey and Success45:10 Challenges and Misconceptions49:25 Loving Yourself Beyond Appearance52:39 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    Follow us on Social media!!!

    Kristy's Contact information:

    IG⁠⁠ https://www.instagram.com/dellalunawellness/

    FB Group⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1F3pseJKUd/?mibextid=wwXIfr⁠⁠⁠

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

    Sunrise Healing, LLC ⁠⁠sunrisehealingaz.com⁠

    ⁠⁠Lipedema Advocate 856-297-7437

    Cindy contact information

    ⁠FB:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/withcindyhowell⁠⁠

    Private FB Group:⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/7021999704562921⁠⁠⁠

    IG:⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/withcindyhowell/⁠⁠⁠

    Cindy Howell RN PHC MPCH

    Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.withcindyhowell.com⁠⁠⁠

    Lipedema advocate: 860-550-1161

    Top 5 Foods to Avoid for Managing Lipedema! Click there Link: https://withcindyhowell.com/checklist/

    Free surgery course: ⁠https://l.bttr.to/6cATB


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    54 mins
  • Part 1 of Debra Ford's Inspiring Journey with Lipedema
    Jul 6 2025

    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

    Follow us on Social media!!!

    Kristy's Contact information:

    IG⁠⁠ ⁠ https://www.instagram.com/sunrisehealingaz?igsh=bnNleGpubHhhdDFr&utm_source=qr⁠⁠⁠

    FB Group⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1F3pseJKUd/?mibextid=wwXIfr⁠⁠⁠

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

    Sunrise Healing, LLC ⁠⁠sunrisehealingaz.com⁠

    ⁠⁠Lipedema Advocate 856-297-7437

    Cindy contact information

    ⁠FB:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/withcindyhowell⁠⁠

    Private FB Group:⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/7021999704562921⁠⁠⁠

    IG:⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/withcindyhowell/⁠⁠⁠

    Cindy Howell RN PHC MPCH

    Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.withcindyhowell.com⁠⁠⁠

    Lipedema advocate: 860-550-1161


    Free surgery course: https://l.bttr.to/6cATBhttps://l.bttr.to/6cATB

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    54 mins
  • Understanding Lipedema Surgery with Dr. Thomas Hagopian
    Jun 29 2025

    In this episode, we welcome Dr. Thomas Hagopian, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Atlanta, Georgia, specializing in Lipedema.

    Dr. Hagopian shares his background, the reason behind his move to Atlanta, and his experience in treating Lipedema.

    He discusses the complexities of Lipedema surgery, from the challenges of insurance approvals to the differences between cosmetic and symptomatic surgery.

    Dr. Hagopian emphasizes the importance of patient expectations, the need for thorough consultations, and the significance of finding a qualified surgeon.

    He also addresses the concerns and misconceptions about anesthesia, the role of physical therapy in preparing for surgery, and the trends in insurance coverage for Lipedema.

    This episode provides valuable insights into the surgical and non-surgical management of Lipedema, aiming to educate and guide patients through the process.00:00 Introduction and Guest Background00:40 Journey to Atlanta02:09 Specializing in Lipedema03:29 Insurance and Patient Experience05:37 Surgical Techniques and Considerations08:56 Importance of Board Certification20:46 Insurance Challenges and Trends28:19 Navigating the Complexities of Lipedema Documentation29:09 Challenges Faced by Lipedema Patients30:08 Misconceptions and Misunderstandings About Lipedema33:18 The Role of Surgery in Lipedema Treatment43:40 Consultation and Insurance Process for Lipedema Surgery51:03 Advice for Lipedema Patients Considering Surgery

    Follow us on Social media!!!

    Kristy's Contact information:

    IG⁠⁠ ⁠ https://www.instagram.com/sunrisehealingaz?igsh=bnNleGpubHhhdDFr&utm_source=qr⁠⁠⁠

    FB Group⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1F3pseJKUd/?mibextid=wwXIfr⁠⁠⁠

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

    Sunrise Healing, LLC ⁠⁠sunrisehealingaz.com⁠

    ⁠⁠Lipedema Advocate 856-297-7437

    Cindy contact information

    ⁠FB:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/withcindyhowell⁠⁠

    Private FB Group:⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/7021999704562921⁠⁠⁠

    IG:⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/withcindyhowell/⁠⁠⁠

    Cindy Howell RN PHC MPCH

    Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.withcindyhowell.com⁠⁠⁠

    Lipedema advocate: 860-550-1161


    Dr. Thomas Hagopian

    https://www.instagram.com/drthomashagopian/?hl=en

    https://youtu.be/0AWz2pKmahU?si=nU33GFLzY4tJPS8f

    To schedule a consult, call the office:



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    58 mins
  • Empowering Women with Lipedema: Debby's Journey and the Benefits of Vibration Plates
    Jun 22 2025

    In this episode of Stronger Than Lipedema, hosts Cindy welcomes Debby's, an advocate who educates on the benefits of vibration plates for managing lipedema and other fat disorders.

    Debby shares her personal journey of discovering the effectiveness of vibration plates, which began with her own need for a non-invasive solution to knee pain.

    Despite not having lipedema herself, Debby's experience led to the creation of a support group that has become a vital resource for many. The discussion covers how vibration plates work, the benefits they offer, including pain relief and improved lymphatic flow, and provides advice on selecting the right equipment.

    Debby emphasizes the importance of starting slow and listening to one's body to avoid overuse. This episode is filled with insights, practical advice, and encouragement for anyone managing lipedema and related conditions.00:00 Introduction to Stronger Than Lipedema00:56 Debby's Journey with Vibration Plates02:47 Starting a Vibration Plate Studio03:31 The Rise of Home Vibration Machines04:45 Discovering Lipedema and Community Support07:13 The Importance of Personalized Approaches20:48 Understanding Vibration Plates28:52 Benefits and Cautions of Vibration Plates42:14 The Rise of Vibration Plates44:23 Debunking Misconceptions53:05 Contraindications and Safety57:25 Choosing the Right Vibration Plate01:09:39 Final Thoughts and Recommendations01:19:11 Conclusion and Farewell
    https://linktr.ee/debbypelletier

    Follow us on Social media!!!

    Kristy's Contact information:

    IG⁠⁠ ⁠ https://www.instagram.com/sunrisehealingaz?igsh=bnNleGpubHhhdDFr&utm_source=qr⁠⁠⁠

    FB Group⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1F3pseJKUd/?mibextid=wwXIfr⁠⁠⁠

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

    Sunrise Healing, LLC ⁠⁠sunrisehealingaz.com⁠

    ⁠⁠Lipedema Advocate 856-297-7437

    Cindy contact information

    ⁠FB:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/withcindyhowell⁠⁠

    Private FB Group:⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/7021999704562921⁠⁠⁠

    IG:⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/withcindyhowell/⁠⁠⁠

    Cindy Howell RN PHC MPCH

    Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.withcindyhowell.com⁠⁠⁠

    Lipedema advocate: 860-550-1161

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    1 hr and 20 mins
  • Journey Through Lipedema: Dora's Story of Discovery and Advocacy
    Jun 15 2025

    Empowerment Through Knowledge: Navigating Lipedema with Expert Insights and Personal StoriesIn this episode of 'Stronger Than Lipedema,' hosts Cindy and Kristy aim to empower women living with lipedema by sharing knowledge, support, and practical solutions.

    Special guest Dora shares her journey from initial symptoms and misdiagnoses to discovering her lipedema diagnosis through research and consultations with Dr. Kim in Sacramento and Dr. Crawford in Roseville.

    Dora discusses her experiences with pain management, conservative treatments, and navigating the healthcare system to find specialists and surgical options.

    The episode highlights the importance of self-advocacy, building a medical support team, and exploring different treatment avenues for managing lipedema effectively.00:00 Welcome to Stronger Than Lipedema00:57 Meet Dora: A Personal Journey01:33 Discovering Lipedema03:37 Challenges in Finding a Diagnosis05:29 Living with Lipedema07:24 Exploring Treatment Options09:11 Preparing for Surgery13:53 Post-Surgery Experiences21:18 Traveling for Treatment26:53 Emotional and Physical Changes30:49 The Illusion of Online Photos31:07 Mental and Emotional Challenges32:35 Comparing Surgical Results34:03 Post-Surgery Struggles36:20 Compression Garments Tips38:55 Sharing Surgery Resources40:49 Unexpected Bruising and Pain49:58 Dealing with Drainage52:06 Advocating for Lipedema Awareness58:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Follow us on Social media!!!

    Kristy's Contact information:

    IG⁠⁠ ⁠ https://www.instagram.com/sunrisehealingaz?igsh=bnNleGpubHhhdDFr&utm_source=qr⁠⁠⁠

    FB Group⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1F3pseJKUd/?mibextid=wwXIfr⁠⁠⁠

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

    Sunrise Healing, LLC ⁠⁠sunrisehealingaz.com⁠

    ⁠⁠Lipedema Advocate 856-297-7437

    Cindy contact information

    ⁠FB:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/withcindyhowell⁠⁠

    Private FB Group:⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/7021999704562921⁠⁠⁠

    IG:⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/withcindyhowell/⁠⁠⁠

    Cindy Howell RN PHC MPCH

    Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.withcindyhowell.com⁠⁠⁠

    Lipedema advocate: 860-550-1161


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    59 mins
  • Lipedema Support and Recovery: An Interview with Nurse Fonda
    Jun 8 2025

    Empowering Women with Lipedema: Nurse Fonda's Journey into Post-Op CareIn this episode of 'Stronger Than Lipedema,' host Cindy and engages with Nurse Fonda to discuss her transition into post-op care and her dedication to assisting women recovering from plastic or cosmetic surgeries.

    Nurse Fonda shares her personal journey, the unexpected events that led her to start her own business, and the deep satisfaction she finds in her work.

    She describes the services she offers, including surgical support, nutrition, pain management, and the importance of lymphatic drainage and compression in recovery.

    The episode also provides informative insights into managing lipedema and underscores the critical need for post-op support.

    Nurse Fonda offers encouragement and practical advice for women considering surgery but lacking adequate support.00:00 Introduction to Stronger Than Lipedema00:55 Meet Nurse Fonda: A Journey in Post-Op Care01:56 The Birth of a Post-Op Care Business03:21 The Growing Need for Post-Op Care06:09 Providing Surgical Recovery Services09:14 Challenges and Insights in Lipedema Surgery14:14 The Importance of Compression and Mobility19:44 Massage Services for Post-Surgery Patients20:25 Mobile MLD and Compression Therapy24:30 Booking and Consultation Process25:25 Meal and Dietary Accommodations27:28 Surgical Supplies and Post-Op Care30:44 Accommodation and Support Services34:25 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    Follow us on Social media!!!

    Kristy's Contact information:

    IG⁠⁠ ⁠ https://www.instagram.com/sunrisehealingaz?igsh=bnNleGpubHhhdDFr&utm_source=qr⁠⁠⁠

    FB Group⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1F3pseJKUd/?mibextid=wwXIfr⁠⁠⁠

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

    Sunrise Healing, LLC ⁠⁠sunrisehealingaz.com⁠

    ⁠⁠Lipedema Advocate 856-297-7437


    Cindy contact information

    ⁠FB:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/withcindyhowell⁠⁠

    Private FB Group:⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/7021999704562921⁠⁠⁠

    IG:⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/withcindyhowell/⁠⁠⁠

    Cindy Howell RN PHC MPCH

    Website:⁠ ⁠⁠www.withcindyhowell.com⁠⁠⁠

    Lipedema advocate: 860-550-1161


    Nurse Fonda:

    IG https://www.instagram.com/nurse_fonda_llc/

    Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083025810117

    Phone#404-274-7956

    Booking link https://form.jotform.com/230893666259066

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    35 mins