26 year old woman, Sara Geurts, continues to shine while living with Ehlers Danlos syndrome. Her confidence, self acceptance, and openness have made her a powerful voice for people with chronic and invisible conditions.
Ehlers Danlos syndrome is a group of inherited conditions that affect the body’s connective tissues, which support the skin, blood vessels, joints, and many internal organs. Because collagen plays such a central role in stability and strength, problems with collagen can lead to symptoms that appear across multiple systems in the body. Many people first notice signs like very elastic skin, unusually flexible joints, and scars that heal in a distinctive way. These features may be mild or severe, and they often show up in childhood.
Beyond the visible signs, Ehlers Danlos can cause complications such as chronic fatigue, frequent joint dislocations, gastrointestinal issues, dizziness from blood pressure instability, and early osteoarthritis. Some subtypes carry serious risks, including aortic involvement that requires lifelong monitoring. This makes awareness and early diagnosis essential so patients can receive proper care and avoid preventable harm.
The condition is caused by specific genetic changes, and diagnosis may include DNA analysis, collagen gene testing, collagen typing through a skin biopsy, echocardiograms to check the heart and blood vessels, and enzyme activity tests. While there is no cure, care teams often include physiotherapists, pain specialists, cardiologists, rheumatologists, and occupational therapists. Treatment focuses on strengthening muscles to protect unstable joints, reducing pain, preventing injury, and supporting daily functioning.
Sara has become an important advocate, helping others understand what it means to live with a chronic disorder that is often misunderstood. She speaks openly about body image, resilience, and self love, reminding people that beauty is not defined by conventional features but by authenticity and courage.
Just look at her. Her smile carries a message of hope, reminding anyone facing a challenge that they are more than their diagnosis.
Photo credit: @sarageurts