1 Year After Being Diagnosed -LIFE UPDATE

Well, I'm not sure how it happened, but it's been a little over a year since being diagnosed with Hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. I figured I would post a little life update on how things have been going, especially since it's been a hot second since I've posted!

1. I have continued to learn about EDS

• Favorite Book about EDS: Understanding Hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder by Claire Smith

• Favorite Podcast about EDS (especially dancers with EDS!): BendyBodies

2. I have tried new treatments

My bruise that lasted 4 weeks from dry needling😂

3. I have re-visited old treatments

4. I started a ZeBrave Instagram

• A few of my students convinced me to start an instagram account, and I am thankful I did.

• I always have guilt and weird feelings about posting about my chronic illnesses. I don't want it ever to be perceived as "oh poor me." Truly I started this blog as a way for me to record all of my trials/errors and help other people; the instagram has just become an extension of that. EDS is not publicly know, and I am happy to put out my story in hopes of helping others. When I get messages from my blog or instagram saying that I helped someone, it makes my day.

• There is a really awesome little EDS community on Instagram. It makes me feel so validated about my experience, and has helped me feel like others are going through similar experiences.

• Also it's just fun to be goofy because that's who I am!!

• @ze.brave

5. I have hope of feeling better

• I have come to terms that I will most likely never not have pain. However, I feel like I am on the road to better pain improvement and management.

• My hip pain has significantly improved since doing prolo therapy, getting good orthotics, and working with my PT.

• I am (sometimes) able to get my shoulder back in if it subluxes. Silly shoulder just really likes to sublux and then get stuck!

• I will be honest, I am awful about just pushing myself through pain. I know I can push through, but that really doesn't mean I should. I've been trying my best to figure out how to still teach, but adapt when I know I need to reset.

• My PCP (who diagnosed my EDS) started Washington's first EDS Clinic! I'm so excited for her and can't wait to do my first visit.

Okay, I guess a lot has happened recently! Thanks for being a part of this journey with me. 💕🦓

Be Brave. Stay Kind. Much Love.

Sami