July 17, 2025

Chronic Pain, Counterstrain, and Self-Advocacy: Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome with Amelia Patrick

53 minutes

In this heartfelt and insightful conversation, we sit down with Amelia, a 23-year-old recent college graduate navigating life with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). Diagnosed during college after years of mysterious pain and debilitating stiffness, Amelia shares how her health journey transformed after discovering Counterstrain therapy—a gentle, fascia-based treatment that gave her meaningful relief and restored some of her mobility.

Amelia opens up about the realities of living with chronic pain, the emotional and mental toll of a misunderstood condition, and the importance of listening to her body. She offers reflections on hydration, movement, and consistent care as essential elements of her wellness routine, and emphasizes the life-changing value of having a knowledgeable, supportive healthcare provider—someone who acts not just as a clinician, but as a thought partner in navigating chronic illness.

Amelia also touches on broader themes relevant to many people with invisible disabilities: the need for empathy, accommodations, and social understanding. From using a cane for balance to managing energy levels, Amelia's story sheds light on the daily decisions and self-advocacy required to live fully with EDS. She describes the broader mental and emotional impact of living with EDS and talks about the invisible workload that comes with chronic conditions, the importance of supportive relationships, and the need to communicate needs clearly—both in healthcare settings and personal life.

Whether you're living with a chronic condition, supporting someone who is, or are a healthcare provider seeking to better understand your patients, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and practical wisdom for anyone managing chronic illness.

Guest Bio: Amelia Patrick

Amelia Patrick is a recent graduate from Sarah Lawrence College. She studied visual arts, writing, and phenomenological anthropology. She spends her free time listening to music and talking about dreams (the kind you have when you sleep).

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