Black and Blue Ribbons
— Karen Del Vecchio

Even though I’m aware of my physical limitations, I’m often bad about respecting them when doing so would keep me from completing the task at hand. I’m probably a good Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS)…

Some weeks just feel eternal. It’s like you’re clawing your way along until Friday, desperate for a chance to get some rest and downtime to prepare for the next week. Sometimes, though, weekends aren’t…

Apparently, I’ve been compiling an unintended list of stupid things not to do when you have Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). First I fell out of a Kubota tractor while driving through a field.

Over the years, I’ve tried a variety of ways to make myself more comfortable at work, where I’m a teacher and college counselor. With my Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), too much time in any…

Last week, I was surprised when building a ramp for my dog didn’t cause my pain to flare up. This week, I’m shocked because I’m in the middle of a pain flare, and…

Just when I think I know how my Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) will react in certain situations, I’m always surprised at what actually happens. My dog Pepper has recently been having trouble climbing stairs.

I vaguely heard a familiar jingle, which in my fuzzy state, confused me. Why was my alarm going off when it was still dark outside? I know I get up early to take…

Do not fall out of a Kubota vehicle. You’re probably thinking, gee, that’s a pretty obvious statement. Yep, it sure is. And despite using four-wheel minitruck vehicles on farms for over a…

The past few weeks have been a whirlwind. As a teacher, the end of winter always seems to drag, as cold, gray days and lots of sick kids make for a tough couple of…

My right shoulder has been causing me problems for more than 20 years, though I’ve made much progress. The original injury happened during a soccer game and has reverberated since then, often as…

When I woke up on a Saturday morning a few weeks ago, I suspected that I might’ve slept in an awkward position. I didn’t feel too bad, though, so I got up and started…

The rising and falling temperatures we’ve been experiencing lately have been challenging for me. With Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), I already tend to have tight muscles that cause pain. It’s a constant battle,…