Emma Cloney is the Vice President and co-founder of Lipedema Canada and a passionate Women’s Health Nurse with over ten years of clinical experience. Since being diagnosed with lipedema in 2021, Emma has emerged as one of the country’s most visible advocates for change—garnering national attention after successfully challenging the Manitoba government to fund mobility-preserving medically necessary lipedema reduction surgeries performed in the USA and Germany. Her landmark victory made her the first Canadian woman to receive multiple such procedures under provincial healthcare coverage. Motivated by the severe gaps in care and awareness across the country, Emma co-founded Lipedema Canada / Lipœdème Canada in 2023 alongside ten fellow patients from coast to coast. As the organization’s Vice President and Medical Lead, she is committed to empowering patients and clinicians alike through education, advocacy, and policy development. Emma’s leadership is helping to redefine what’s possible for Canadians living with lipedema, driving national conversations and tangible change.

Lipedema Uncovered: 8 Surprising Truths and Why Canadian Patients Are Still Being Left Behind

Sunday: 9:00am

Lipedema is a misunderstood and often misdiagnosed condition that affects millions—yet many healthcare professionals still don’t recognize it. In this eye-opening session, Emma Cloney, Vice President of Lipedema Canada, registered Women’s Health Nurse (RNBN), and one of the country’s leading voices in lipedema advocacy, will shine a light on what lipedema truly is, how it differs from lymphedema and obesity, and why this matters deeply for accurate diagnosis and care.

But beyond the clinical differences, Emma will share the top 8 most surprising things you didn’t know about lipedema—from the silent suffering behind the symptoms to the latest science, stigma, and the systemic barriers that continue to prevent patients in Canada from receiving proper treatment. This presentation is a must-attend for clinicians, therapists, advocates, and anyone seeking to understand the true landscape of lipedema care in Canada today.

Expect a dynamic blend of evidence, patient voice, and practical insight that will leave you informed—and inspired to act.