Living With Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: Hypermobility, Wheelchairs, and Advocacy | Ryann Mason Pt. 2

In this episode of Proudly On Record, we continue our conversation with disability advocate, nurse, and creator Ryann “Ry” Mason (Chronically_Ry). Ry shares what it is like living with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), a genetic connective tissue disorder that affects collagen throughout the body and can cause joint dislocations, chronic pain, fatigue, and mobility challenges.Ry talks about growing up hypermobile, becoming an ER nurse and dancer, and eventually transitioning to using mobility aids and a wheelchair after her body could no longer safely sustain the physical demands of her career. She opens up about the emotional process of losing mobility, learning to ask for help, and redefining identity through disability.Throughout the conversation, Ry also dives into disability advocacy, accessibility barriers, and the realities of navigating healthcare and insurance systems as a disabled person. From the difficulty of obtaining properly fitted wheelchairs to misconceptions about wheelchair users and ambulatory disability, Ry explains how much of the world is still built without disabled people in mind.The conversation also explores important topics like disability etiquette, accessibility in public spaces, disability representation in media, and why community is essential for people navigating progressive or degenerative conditions. Ry shares practical advice for able-bodied allies who want to support accessibility and inclusion, along with encouragement for anyone learning to live with a disability.Follow Ryann Mason:Instagram / TikTok / YouTube: @chronically_ryKeywords:Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, EDS, Ryann Mason, Chronically Ry, disability advocacy, wheelchair user, ambulatory wheelchair user, chronic illness, hypermobile EDS, disability awareness, accessibility, disability rights, healthcare accessibility, chronic pain, disability community, disability representation, living with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, invisible disability, mobility aids