Episode #58 - Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome by Rachel Rykal

On the next episode of Survive & Thrive 8791 Podcast , I welcome Rachel Rykal to the Buck & Honey's remote studios. Rachel Rykal’s story is one of survival through invisible pain, misunderstanding, and recovery. From her sophomore year in high school, Rykal would endure physical pain that she or her doctors couldn’t explain. As her pain intensified, she continued to face skepticism from both peers and adults. She was questioned about her pain and, at times, it was dismissed entirely. Her emotional turmoil of being misunderstood bordered on bullying. Amidst the ever present struggle, there was her high school dance team that brought her joy and relief from the outside world which helped her push through the darkest of times.At age 19, Rykal finally received a diagnosis she was dearly looking for, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a rare disorder affecting the connective tissue. With a diagnosis came hope, but traditional methods like physical therapy and medication didn’t help. Her suffering became more visible, and it was her brother’s who would confront her and urge her to take care of herself for the sake of her family. Determined, Rykal took a leap of faith and moved to Oregon to explore alternative methods and an all-natural healing approach. Today, she lives a better life with her pain manageable and filling her life with work and being the best aunt in the world. With courage, support, and self-advocacy, Rachel Rykal is surviving and thriving. This will be a good one, CAN’T WAIT!!!