A MONTH OF COMMUNITY, SUPPORT AND EDUCATION
This past month has been a whirlwind of activity for Connective Strength, filled with inspiring conversations, informative presentations, and meaningful connections. Our journey through the month took us from Marysville to Kirkland, and finally to the University of Puget Sound, each stop marked by significant events aimed at fostering community and spreading awareness about Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and related conditions.
Launching the Caregiver Series in Marysville
We kicked off the month with the launch of our Caregiver Series in Marysville, a new initiative designed to support those who provide care to individuals living with EDS and related conditions. The series opened with a remarkable session led by Stacey Hoffman, who facilitated an engaging conversation among caregivers. This session marked part one of a three-part series, focusing on the unique experiences and needs of caregivers. While caregivers shared experiences and insights in one room, patients had their own support meeting next door, allowing both groups to receive tailored support and understanding. The dual approach underscored our commitment to nurturing both patients and their caregivers, recognizing the unique challenges each group faces. The next session, scheduled for April, will shift the focus to patients, delving into their experiences and needs, and continuing the conversation on how best to provide comprehensive support.
Kirkland Meeting: A Focus on Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Our journey continued in Kirkland, where we hosted support meetings for both patients and caregivers, followed by an enlightening presentation on thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) by Molly Allison from Holistic Orthopedics. Molly’s comprehensive overview covered the presentation of TOS, delving into the diagnostic process, and exploring available treatments. This session was particularly impactful, shedding light on a condition that often intersects with the experiences of those living with EDS, and providing valuable knowledge for our community.
Spreading Awareness at the University of Puget Sound
To close out a busy month, Connective Strength board members had the privilege of speaking with Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students at the University of Puget Sound. Dr. Matthew Oseto and Dr. Virtaj Singh delivered an engaging presentation, sharing insights and fostering a deeper understanding of EDS among future healthcare professionals. This visit was a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to spread awareness and educate others about EDS, highlighting the importance of informed and compassionate care for those affected by EDS.
Looking Forward
As we reflect on the past month, we are filled with gratitude for the opportunities to connect with our community, share knowledge, and support one another. Each event, from the caregiver conversations in Marysville to the educational session in Kirkland and the outreach at the University of Puget Sound, has reinforced our mission to enhance the lives of those living with EDS and related conditions.
We look forward to continuing this journey, building on the momentum of the past month with upcoming events, support meetings, and educational initiatives. Our heartfelt thanks go out to everyone who participated, shared their stories, and contributed to the success of these events. Together, we are making a difference, one conversation, one presentation, and one meeting at a time.
For more information about Connective Strength and our upcoming events, or to get involved, please visit our website or contact us directly at Questions@ConnectiveStrength.org. Your support and involvement are vital to our mission, and we welcome all who wish to join us in making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by EDS and related conditions.