This interview was recorded in June 2021.

"I was so grateful to learn that there was such a thing as lipedema." At one point, Francine Schwartz was 425 pounds. Doctor after doctor just told her to "lose the weight." Peri-menopause exacerbated her condition and she says, "I was heading toward a wheelchair."

A former dresser on Broadway, she spent her career looking after others. One of her main messages is that she had to learn to advocate for herself and she encourages others to do the same. Once she learned about lipedema, she was fortunate to find a doctor familiar with the condition whose healing words "It's not your fault..." meant the world to her.

Francine has had five lipedema surgeries, is half the size she once was, and uses a variety of tools - including Lympha Press - to manage her condition. Why? "Because I'm worth the bother."

Her future no longer includes a wheelchair. She's excited about traveling and living life. Be inspired by Francine Schwartz!

You can watch the video recording of Francine's interview on the Lipedema Channel on YouTube, or on Instagram at @lympha_press.

The Lipedema Channel interviews are brought to you by Lympha Press, global leaders in pneumatic compression therapy for nearly 40 years. For more information, visit lymphapress.com.