Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of 7 genetic connective tissue conditions, most forms are very rare. However the hypermobility type is the most common, but rarely diagnosed.
Mel has a complex case of EDS. In general EDS causes the body to produce faulty collagen. Collagen is a protein providing strength to the body’s organs, skin, ligaments, tendons, bones, muscles and much more… It is said to be like the body’s glue, holding it all together.
So Mel’s body is basically falling apart. All of her joints dislocate or sublux (partially dislocate) 100’s of times each day, including her spine, pelvis and skull! She has problems with fragile stretchy skin, immune system problems, asthma, allergies, mast cell activation disorder, adrenal insufficiency, gut dismotility and malabsorption, dental deformities, dysautonomia, chronic fatigue, osteoporosis and chronic pain.
Mel’s biggest problem is with spinal instability and the life threatening condition, Cranio Cervical Instability (CCI). You can learn more by visiting our what is CCI page as well as our page on the complex and potentially life-saving surgery we’re currently fundraising for.
To learn more about EDS please visit: http://ehlers-danlos.com/what-is-eds/
We also recommend this YouTube video: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=HkYr_WY-TRA
If you’d like to sponsor our cause please visit our donate now page. If you can provide support of any other kind please get in touch today by visiting our contact us page. Alternatively, please email info@melanies-mission-eds.org.uk or engage with us via social media.