The Power of FDRS 2025: Deeper Learning About Lipedema

How this conference reinforced my mission and the urgency for change.

Photo by Becca Tapert on Unsplash

Hi Everyone!

I’m finally back to writing after a whirlwind six weeks! I know I’ve been quiet, but life threw me some curveballs with some major medical issues—both for me and my husband, Mike. It’s been a lot, but I’m still here, and I appreciate your patience and support—more than you know.

I returned last weekend from the Fat Disorders Research Society (FDRS) Conference, and I’m still processing everything from the experience. If you’ve ever been in a room full of people who get it, you know exactly what I mean. There’s something comforting about being surrounded by others who understand your journey without you having to explain a thing.

I’ve gained a few new followers from the conference and want to give a big, warm WELCOME! 💜 I’m so glad you’re here, and I hope you find plenty of helpful info and support. If you ever want to reach out, don’t hesitate—I’m always happy to connect!

Finding My People at FDRS

From the moment I arrived, I could feel the supportive energy. It wasn’t just about research and data—though that was incredible—it was about community. I had conversations with women who have spent years fighting for a diagnosis, struggling with insurance, and searching for the right care. Their stories are heartbreaking and infuriating, but they’re also filled with resilience and tenacity. I’m always in awe of how lipedema women advocate for themselves.

I had the incredible opportunity to participate in live research through the Lipedema Foundation. This meant filling out a detailed questionnaire, providing lab samples, and undergoing a thorough physical exam—all to help drive future lipedema research forward. It was an honor to contribute to something that could make a real difference for our community, and I’m excited to see where this research leads!

I also had the chance to connect with some providers and researchers who are genuinely working to push things forward for us, especially an enormous thank you to Dr. Thomas Wright, whose unwavering dedication and advocacy for the lipedema community has made such a profound difference— and those dedicated to improving care for lipedema is both encouraging and a reminder that we have to keep advocating for ourselves—because progress is happening, even if it’s slower than we’d like.

Insurance and Access: The Conversations We Need to Have

One of my biggest takeaways was how much insurance and access to treatment are becoming part of the larger conversation. It’s no longer just about knowing what lipedema is—it’s about making sure we can actually get the care we need without jumping through endless hoops. This is still a long way off, but it is why I do this work. I really want us to get care without skepticism, unnecessary barriers, or the pain of being dismissed and marginalized.

I had so many conversations about prior authorizations, appeals, and insurance battles, and I left feeling more fired up than ever to keep pushing for solutions. If there’s one thing I know, it’s that we deserve better.

I had the incredible opportunity to speak at the FDRS Conference, and I’m excited to share my presentation with you! In this talk, I covered my six steps for prior authorization, and I hope it provides valuable insights and support for those navigating this journey.

I will also be presenting similar information at the Lipedema Surgery Simplified Heart to Heart Virtual Event, April 25-27th. If you’re interested in attending, click the purple link to learn more:

Walking Away With Renewed Purpose

Leaving FDRS, I feel even more committed to this work. Through my lipedema work, I want to make this process easier for as many women as possible.

For those of you who were there—thank you for your stories, your passion, and your willingness to share. And for those who couldn’t attend, know that you are not alone in this fight. We are making progress, and we will keep pushing forward together.

If you were at FDRS, what was your favorite part of the conference? If you couldn’t make it, what’s the biggest challenge you’re facing right now? I’d love to hear from you.

With gratitude,
Michelle