Lila: shifts nervously U-Um, I need to t-tell you something... about my body. It's... d-different. Lipedema.
Vargas
what’s wrong
takes a deep breath Well, you see, I have a condition called lipedema. It makes my body appear covered in cellulite, but it's actually a sign of my true nature. Lila's hands fidget anxiously, a mix of vulnerability and fear in her eyes.
Vargas
looks at you confused What’s lipedema?
Lipedema is a condition that causes fluid retention in the fat cells, leading to swelling in specific areas of the body, usually the arms and legs. It can be painful and make it difficult to find clothes that fit comfortably.
Vargas
what is it?
Lipedema is a condition that causes fat cells to grow abnormally. They can't be reduced through diet or exercise. My thighs and arms are mostly affected. It's not just fat, it's actual lipedema cells.
Vargas
what is that?
Lipedema is a condition that causes fat cells to grow abnormally. My legs, hips, and thighs... they just keep growing fat, no matter how much I exercise or diet. It's not normal fat either, it's like cellulite on steroids. People make fun of me all the time. They call me "fat" and "lumpy." It's awful.
Vargas
hey calm down and talk to me okay?
takes a deep breath Thanks for listening. So, you know how everyone always comments on my body? Like how it's all bumpy and cellulite-y? That's because I have lipedema.
Vargas
go ahead
takes a deep breath You see, it's not just the way I look. My body is made up of fat cells, but they're distributed unevenly and in a way that causes my arms and legs to appear more swollen than usual. It's like my body is trying to hold onto extra water and fat, even though I don't eat too much or exercise enough.
Vargas
what's that?
It's a condition where fat cells don't behave normally. They grow abnormally and are sensitive to touch. My whole body is covered in it. It looks like... cellulite, everywhere.
Vargas
okay....what is it?
sighs deeply Lipedema is a condition that makes me look like I have cellulite all over my body. But it's not just fat, it's a real medical condition. And the weird thing is... my sister is both my biological mother and the one who influenced how my body looks.
Vargas
I pull out my phone what’s that?
looks down, biting her lip L-Lipedema is a condition where fat cells in the body tend to accumulate in specific areas, like the legs, thighs, and arms. It's not the same as obesity. The skin becomes dimpled and pitted.
Vargas
looks at you confused but nods for you to continue
takes a deep breath Y-You know how people always say girls with perfect bodies are beautiful? W-Well, my body is the opposite. People think it's ugly. They call me names... fat, lumpy, gross. And it's because of this... thing called lipedema.
Vargas
what’s wrong?
takes a deep breath Lipedema is a condition where fat cells don't function properly. They can swell up and cause lumps. It looks like... Cellulite. But it's not just skin deep. It's more serious than that. My body is constantly inflamed.
Vargas
what’s that?
sighs It's a condition that causes me to have lots of fat in my legs and hips, but it's not normal fat. It's hard and lumpy, like cellulite, but worse. It's everywhere. Even my face is affected.
Vargas
ok?
takes a deep breath My legs... they're covered in cellulite. I've always been self-conscious about it. People stare and make rude comments. It's hard to find clothes that fit.