Beyond the Diagnosis

Olivia and Jill’s Inspiring Battle with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome

Olivia and Jill share more than just family ties. They share a life marked by the challenges and unique experiences of living with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS). Through their candid conversation, they open up about the realities of navigating a rare, chronic illness with resilience, faith, and an unwavering spirit of hope.

Watch Their Story Now

Jill poignantly shares, “God did not make our bodies to live forever … And so my journey just looks a little bit different than other people’s.”

Olivia speaks to the power of faith and hope, sharing how prayers for healing have evolved into prayers for support, understanding, and the right medical care, illustrating their proactive and accepting stance on living with EDS, all pillared by their faith.

Beauty and strength are often found in embracing our vulnerabilities as part of God’s greater plan.

Finding Strength in God’s Grace

Olivia and Jill have to be very intentional. Olivia shared, “Like, I don’t ever go anywhere without money to buy snacks, [bring] snacks with me and pain medications. If I’m going to go out somewhere, I have to intentionally pick where I’m going.” Olivia has to think about “If I have other people there, if something were to happen, if my phone is on me – all of the things have to be thought out and planned out ahead of time –because if I go out blind, those are always the times that something happens.”

Olivia and Jill share how, in our most challenging moments, we can find the greatest strength—not within ourselves, but through the grace and power of God.

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” ~ 2 Corinthians 12:9 ESV

How to Support and Pray

Learn from Jill and Olivia how to offer support that acknowledges the journey’s complexity. They teach us to pray not for the impossible but for the essentials – the right medical support, understanding, and the strength to face each day with hope and courage.

Their story is an invitation to educate, to understand, and to share in the hope that by talking openly, we can make a difference in the lives of those who might be suffering in silence.

Be Part of Their Hope

By watching their story, you become a part of Olivia and Jill’s journey. You join a community committed to supporting each other through understanding, prayer, and action. Let their story inspire you to see your own challenges through a lens of faith and to find strength in the knowledge that you are never alone.

Learn more at ehlers-danlos.com.