Mary Chapman, features writer —

Health advocacy efforts generally promote health and access to care. If you or a family member has a rare disease such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), it may be helpful to learn more about such work and how you might get involved. What is EDS? EDS refers to a group…

Scores of virtual events are afoot around the world to mark Rare Disease Day 2021 on Feb. 28. The activities are focused on heightening awareness about rare diseases and the hundreds of millions of individuals they are thought to affect. Patients, caregivers, and advocates worldwide will sport denim ribbons…

While progress was made last year on newborn screening and other policy issues critical to rare disease patients, a “State Report Card” argues that many concerns — notably out-of-pocket costs for prescription medicines and access to affordable comprehensive care — still need attention. Those were the findings of the…

Caring for a loved one with a rare disease, especially during these uncertain times, demands significant time, attention, patience, and dedication. To help meet that need, the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)’s Rare Caregiver Respite Program may be a helpful resource. The program seeks to give a…

Butterflies, ballerinas, and abstract flowers are featured among the winning artwork of this year’s Rare Artist contest, hosted by the EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases to heighten awareness about rare disease communities and salute the creativity of its members. Awardees will be able to display their art and…

The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) is seeking individuals willing to share real-life experiences with rare diseases to speak at its upcoming virtual Living Rare, Living Stronger NORD Patient and Family Forum. The interactive, patient-focused forum will be held online June 26-27. The deadline to apply for…

Patient registries aim to help researchers better understand a particular disease, establish best practices, and, ultimately, find a cure. If you have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), there are multiple registries that may be of interest to you. What is EDS? EDS refers to a group of genetic disorders affecting the…

The Ehlers-Danlos Society has several scholarship grants available for those who wish to attend its Virtual Summer Conference 2021, or the accompanying series of one-day meetings, and without aid may not be able to do so. The conference is set for June 26–27, and the five single-day events…

Parenting a child with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) can be challenging. This information about pediatric EDS may be useful in helping you meet those challenges as you endeavor to provide the best possible care for your child. What is EDS? EDS refers to a group of disorders that affect the…

There are many other conditions that may exist simultaneously with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), even though researchers don’t fully understand their association with EDS. Here is some information about what other conditions can be present in EDS patients. What is EDS? EDS refers to a group of disorders that…