Lipedema is a chronic disease that causes a disproportionate fat buildup beneath the skin. The condition is most common in the legs but can also affect the arms.  Symptoms can include: pain, swelling, bruise easily, Over time mobility may be reduced, and due to reduced quality of life, patients often experience depression.  There is no cure.  The only known remedy are two very specific liposuction methods performed by only a small amount of doctors called tumescent anesthesia (TA) liposuction, and water assisted liposuction (WAL).

I want to start out by saying, I am by far the worst or even close to worst case of Lipedema out there.  But waiting any certain amount of time could mean the progression of a very real and very fast acting degenerative disease called Lipedema.  I look back at the woman on my mothers side of the family and it is definitely apparent, Lipedema affected them all.  It is estimated that 1 in 72,000 women are affected and the symptoms and severity can range.  I am in the beginning of stage 2.  That means for me personally I do not have a ton of pain in my legs, or immobility caused by such pain and swelling.  Unlike thousands of women who simply cannot walk, play with their kids or even get out of bed in some severe cases.  I am still at a stage where I can do the things I love, sort of.  I am very aware that the fat I carry in my lower half of my body and my upper arms is not "normal".  It has progressed substantially over the last few years and who knows how much longer it will take to eventually take over.  In Canada sadly, Lipedema is not considered a health issue but more so an obesity issue and the advise is to go on a strict diet and exercise.  Great advise if that was the right solution, but it's not.  Women all over the world have tried everything and sure they may lose inches in their waist, but the legs stay the same and if anything grow to be larger over time.

If our Canadian health care system would take a closer look at the problem they would see we are dealing with something much more than a weight issue, we are dealing with a fat disease and it needs to recognized as such.  Even one surgery (overseas I'll add) can be upwards of $25,000 each.  In many cases 2-4 surgeries are needed...and no health coverage?  Why?  Why is this not recognized as a chronic health issue?  Why are Canadians left to suffer or be pushed to spend 1000's of their hard earned dollars just to feel better?  We pay taxes that include coverage for a variety of health issues so our Canadians health care system should step up when our citizens are in need and help improve the lives of thousands of women.  Please sign this petition so we can gain our body, our lives and and our confidence back.