DjinniWhispers
"From Awkward Laughs to Inked Paths: Writing Without Limits"
“From Awkward Laughs to Inked Paths: Writing Without Limits”
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I am always seeking to learn more, absorb information, and reach my ultimate form: the human encyclopedia. I’m kidding, maybe.
As a neurodivergent person, my particular “special interest” is knowledge gathering. I am a lifelong student, always googling, reading, and listening to new information.
While in one of my hyperfixated research sessions, I came across a YouTube channel called “The Bendy Bodies Podcast.” A podcast for EDS(Ehlers Danlos Syndrome). This particular episode discussed Physical Therapy(PT) and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome(EDS), which got my proverbial antenna up. The bait was set, and I took it—hook, line, and sinker.
[Information] EDS or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is an inherited connective tissue dysfunction syndrome that was previously considered rare, but that assertion is now being called into question. There are 13 known subtypes. The Hypermobile type, the most common, has been suggested to be as prevalent as 1 in 5,000 to 1 in 20,000 people, according to some estimates. These numbers, however, can vary significantly, as hEDS and other types of EDS are often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed due to a lack of awareness and understanding within the medical community and the overlap of symptoms with different conditions.
Check the hyperlink for more information about EDS or see my other post HERE
I am so grateful that I did. This podcast (something I do not generally listen to) was a revelation. The host and founder, Dr. Linda Bluestein, is a board-certified anesthesiologist with several endorsements and, as evident by my googling, a voracious advocate for EDS’ers. I honestly would be afraid to look at her schedule. Mad Pops to her; I don’t know how she manages all of that, especially with a chronic illness like EDS.
Her guest speaker, Dr. Lillian Holm, DPT or “Doctor of Physical Therapy”, yes, PTs are full-on doctors. Dr. Holm is another advocate for the EDS community, and her professionalism and education on bodies like ours is evident in the the quality of material that flows from her like a font of information.
The podcast episode “#92” featuring Dr. Linda Bluestein and Dr. Lillian Holm serves not just as an educational resource but as a communal call to arms for all of us battling EDS. It underscores a fundamental truth that our journey toward wellness is both
personal and shared. By tuning in, we’re not merely seeking answers for ourselves; we’re joining a broader narrative of resilience, hope, and collective empowerment.
A significant part of our battle against EDS involves dispelling myths and confronting misinformation — a task that Dr. Bluestein and Dr. Holm handle with finesse and authority. Their discussion serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of being informed, not just about the latest research or therapeutic techniques, but about understanding our own bodies. Their insights empower us to advocate for ourselves in medical settings, demand the care we deserve, and recognize that, while our path may be fraught with challenges, it is also laden with potential victories.
Perhaps one of the most resonant themes of this podcast episode is the emphasis on community and support. As EDS warriors, the value of connecting with others who genuinely understand our struggles cannot be overstated. Dr. Bluestein and Dr. Holm exemplify this spirit of community, not just in their professional collaboration but in the way they reach out to listeners, inviting us into a space of shared experiences and mutual support.
The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths
-Elizabeth Kübler-Ross
This episode, and indeed the broader work of these remarkable professionals, reinforces the idea that we are stronger together.
By sharing our stories, successes, and setbacks, we build a tapestry of experiences that enriches our collective understanding of EDS and how to live with it, not just as individuals but as a unified and indomitable community.
Inspired by the podcast, I urge you to take actionable steps toward engaging with the EDS community and embracing the wealth of knowledge and support available. Follow Dr. Bluestein and Dr. Holm on social media, engage with their content, and let their insights fuel your journey. Beyond this, seek out local and online EDS support groups, forums, and resources. The power of shared experiences in fostering understanding, empathy, and progress cannot be underestimated.
As we close this chapter of our blog, let’s carry forward the message of hope, empowerment, and community that Dr. Bluestein and Dr. Holm have so passionately shared. Their podcast is more than just a source of information; it’s a beacon of light for all of us navigating the complexities of EDS. Let their words inspire you to
embrace your journey with renewed vigor, optimism, and a deep-seated belief that, together, we can overcome the challenges of EDS and forge a path of wellness and fulfillment.
Remember, our journey with EDS is not defined by the hurdles we face but by the courage, strength, and community we build along the way. So, let’s listen, learn, and lean on each other. Together, there’s no limit to what we can achieve. Let’s not just survive EDS; let’s thrive in spite of it.
Together, we’re not just surviving; we’re thriving.