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If you look up the name Mackenzie Mathis, you will know about a 19-year old girl who fought EDS, or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

EDS is a neurological condition. It is a collection of genetic disorders that affect collagen. People who are diagnosed with EDS often experince a downward pull of the spinal cord, which causes Chiari malformation.

When Mathis had the disease, her legs gave out, and she had to suffer headaches and two surgeries. Fortunately, Mathis can now use her legs well. She is able to walk on normal strides as well as drive and dance.

EDS includes a group of inherited disorders which weaken the connective tissue supporting the skin, bones, blood vessels and other organs. Patients of EDS usually experience problems on their skin, joins and blood vessels such as loose joints, fragile vessels, and abnormal scar formation.

For all cases of EDS, it seems faulty genetics is at play. It happens when both parents carry the defective gene.

This is why diagnosis of EDS usually requires a series of examinations which include reviewing the patient’s family history, personal medical history, physical exam, biopsy, and urine testing.

(via Duniyalive.com)