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Cara JonesA British woman suffering from lipedema who did not know about her illness for a long time
Country:
 Great Britain |
Content:
- Kara Jones: Living with Lipedema
- A Difficult Childhood
- A Journey of Self-Discovery
- A Life-Altering Diagnosis
- Fighting for Recognition
- A Hope for the Future
Kara Jones: Living with Lipedema
Kara Jones, a 39-year-old British woman, has been suffering from a condition called lipedema for most of her life. Lipedema is a disorder that causes an abnormal accumulation of fat in the legs, from the hips to the ankles. Despite its debilitating effects, lipedema cannot be cured.
A Difficult Childhood
Jones's problems with swollen legs began in her teenage years, leading to her being ridiculed by her peers. Ashamed of her large legs, she resorted to extreme diets and developed anorexia and bulimia. She recalls how her grandmother told her to leave the kitchen because she was "too fat." These negative comments stuck with her, and she longed to be like everyone else.
A Journey of Self-Discovery
Unaware of her condition during her youth, Jones was obsessed with her weight and engaged in strenuous physical activities in an attempt to slim down her legs. However, nothing seemed to work. Her dreams of dancing were shattered, as she couldn't wear leggings due to her condition.
A Life-Altering Diagnosis
After giving birth to her son Alfie, now three years old, Jones experienced excruciating pain in her arms and legs, along with persistent swelling. She describes the pain as dental pain, but in her limbs. In April 2011, after undergoing extensive medical tests, Jones was finally diagnosed with lipedema. However, her joy was short-lived as she learned that there was no cure for her condition. Today, she manages her pain with a compression therapy device and practices lymphatic drainage massage at home.
Fighting for Recognition
Recognized as disabled, Jones dedicates her time to raising awareness about lipedema. She maintains a Facebook page where over 400 individuals with lipedema discuss their problems and find support. She has also helped establish an organization called "Talk Lipedema," which aims to provide answers and support to those affected by the condition. The organization is currently in the process of obtaining charitable status.
A Hope for the Future
In the fall of 2014, Jones plans to travel to Germany to undergo a liposuction procedure that aims to reduce her fat accumulation. The National Health Service does not cover the cost of this treatment, so Jones will have to pay approximately £15,000 out of her own pocket.
Despite the challenges she faces, Jones remains determined to improve her quality of life and help others dealing with lipedema. While she may not be able to have more children due to her condition, she hopes that her efforts will pave the way for greater understanding and support for those living with lipedema.
