In 2014, Susan Mortarelli was bedridden. She searched endlessly for answers while feeling like her skin was on fire. Today, she’s a vocal and very present advocate for those with lipedema and Dercum’s disease.

She candidly shares her experiences with surgery, ICG lymphography, and lymphoscintigraphy imaging. Susan underscores the importance of using medical language to communicate with medical professionals. Her exhortation to know your medical history and to offer encouragement to others when you’re feeling down is inspiring.

Susan leads a wonderful support group for those in the New England region: Lipedema Strong New England. Here are some resources discussed in the interview:

• FDRS – https://www.fatdisorders.org/
• LE&RN – Lymphatic Education and Research Network – https://lymphaticnetwork.org/
• Defying Dercum’s – Susan Mortarelli – https://youtu.be/YaByouuosC4