Diagnosed with lipolymphedema at 59, Jenny Beaujean has over 40 years of public service, including directing a state historical park and leading training for the State’s long-term care Ombudsman office. She actively supports the Lipedema community through the Lymphapress’s Monthly Lipedema Patient Round Table and the Lipedema Strong in New England Facebook group.

Connie Boyer is a transformative leader in professional development with over two decades of experience. At Amazon, she pioneered the global Adminz@ initiative, revolutionizing training for administrative staff. Diagnosed with Lipedema, Connie uses her personal journey to drive awareness and support through education.

Cara Garrett, known as PaleGingerPear, is a content creator in the Lipedema community raising awareness, challenging harmful narratives, and empowering others to advocate for the care and recognition they deserve. She openly shares her journey including 7 Lipedema surgeries, embracing the daily importance of compression, and GLP-1s as a tool for inflammation and symptom management.

Levi Garrett, known as FluffyGotFit, transformed his life by losing over 230 lbs and becoming a World Champion Bodybuilder. Now a certified personal trainer and nutritionist, he empowers others to achieve sustainable health goals. With degrees in Marketing, Management, and Communication, Levi brings strategic and financial expertise to the ALA.

After decades of misdiagnoses, Hiba Hamati was diagnosed with Lipedema in 2020. With a background in strategy and marketing, she is dedicated to amplifying the voices of those living with Lipedema and raising awareness among healthcare providers through storytelling and strategic communication.

Bailey Maddox is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist and facilitator for the National Lymphedema Network Clinical Focus Group on Lipedema. Appointed to the SC Board of Massage Therapy, she focuses on training massage therapists to recognize Lipedema and creating practical resources for therapists.

Carina Johannessen transitioned from a career in sales and marketing to nursing after her mother’s stroke. With experience in emergency medicine, occupational health, and mental health, she brings a holistic view to patient care. Diagnosed with Lipedema in 2024, Carina is passionate about early diagnosis and mental health support for women.

Susan O’Hara is a certified Program Management Professional and a dedicated Lipedema advocate. She founded LegsLikeMine.com and a footwear company tailored for individuals with unique foot needs. Susan has authored several books on Lipedema, including “Aqua Therapy for Lipedema and Lymphedema” and “Empowered Legs: Advocacy for Lipedema Patients.” With over 28 years in IT and government consulting, she brings strategic leadership to the ALA.

Dr. Thomas Wright is a board-certified physician specializing in venous and lymphatic medicine. He has authored over 30 scientific publications, including research on Lipedema reduction surgery. As a co-author of the US Lipedema Standard of Care Guidelines, Dr. Wright brings extensive medical expertise to the ALA.