Then, I saw a documentary about a condition called lipedema (a connective tissue disorder where the fat has trouble interfacing with the tissue which impacts the circulatory and lymphatic systems) and the women in the documentary were like me with big hips and butts and heavy legs. I saw a lymphatic cardiovascular specialist at Stanford in September 2021 who confirmed that I had Stage 3 lipedema and there was no cure. I currently do about 2 hours of exercises and lymphatic treatments daily to help manage the pain and swelling. I was feeling really sad about being diagnosed with this condition but learned about 11% of all women have it and causation is genetic as well as physical trauma and hormonal based (I have all 3) . I was kvetching to a friend who said, “Girl, stop being sad and just embrace that big booty!” I then had an aha moment…….

I had already created my unique truffles and just decided to rebrand them as “Big Booty Chocolates”. I wanted to make this business about body positivity and inclusion. Not all vegans are skinny. We come in all shapes and sizes. I AM the big booty of “Big Booty Chocolates.” I often have women asking me if my chocolates will make their booty bigger and I say embrace whatever booty you have and enjoy some compassionate delicious vegan artisan chocolate! NOTE: A portion of my proceeds goes to support The Lipedema Foundation and to events that help promote body positivity, inclusion and self-compassion. Hugs!