"Someone who genuinely wanted to help"

I have struggled with lipodema, from an early age. It is a poorly recognised condition within the NHS and most healthcare providers know little or nothing about it, despite it usually causing a range of very unpleasant and debilitating physical and psychological symptoms.

After a few failed attempts at the GP for help, I was referred to Audrey at Central clinic in Hamilton. Audrey was so friendly and validating. For the first time ever, I felt as though my lipodema and the symptoms I had been living with since age 11 (I'm now in my mid 40's) were being fully acknowledged by someone who genuinely wanted to help. She recognised it straight away.

Audrey gave me a list of recommendations which she said may help, which made me feel like I may have a bit of control over this condition. Audrey is very warm and compassionate and a credit to NHS Lanarkshire. She is clearly passionate about what she does. I would love to see more healthcare providers like Audrey in this area, and lipodema and the the wide range of awful symptoms it causes being given the attention it so badly needs.

If lipodema can be detected earlier, people can be given the relevant information and seek to manage the symptoms to slow progression. This would result in people having to rely less on NHS services in the long run. Some training and education in this area is needed across a range of healthcare professions.

A big thank you to Audrey for her help and compassion!