Amber’s Story

Hello everyone!

For years, Amber has been managing a complex and often invisible battle with a chronic illness: Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome which has caused a complex amount of other health issues: Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), orthodontic hypotension, and hip dysplasia (with a torn labrum). These conditions, which have deeply impacted her life, have now led to the need for a major, life-changing surgery- a periacetabular osteotomy and hip arthroscopy. Amber has been on crutches all summer, and eventually led to being in a wheelchair, unable to walk.

The Challenge: Hip Dysplasia and Periacetabular Osteotomy (PAO)

Due to the faulty connective tissue associated with her EDS, her joints are hypermobile and unstable. This has caused significant wear and tear on her hips, leading to a condition called hip dysplasia. In her case, the hip socket is too shallow and doesn't properly cover the ball of the femur, causing daily pain, instability, and an increased risk of long-term arthritis.

The solution is a major surgery called a periacetabular osteotomy (PAO). This procedure involves cutting the pelvis around the hip socket and repositioning it to better cover the femoral head. While incredibly complex and difficult, a PAO is a hip-preserving surgery that is her best chance at a pain-free, active life, and will help avoid a full hip replacement in the future.

How EDS and PCOS Impact Her Health

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS): This connective tissue disorder means her body's collagen is defective. For her, this has led to widespread joint instability, chronic pain, and easy bruising. The hip dysplasia is a direct result of her EDS, as her ligaments and tendons are too loose to properly stabilize the joint.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This hormonal disorder causes its own set of challenges, including chronic inflammation, pelvic pain, and hormonal imbalances that can amplify her overall pain levels. Managing the symptoms of PCOS alongside the extreme pain from hip dysplasia has made daily life and even simple tasks extremely difficult.

The Long Road to Recovery

The PAO surgery is only the beginning. The recovery is long, difficult, and demanding, and the timeline is lengthy:

Immediately post-op: She will spend a few days in the hospital before returning home to begin recovery.

The first 6–8 weeks: She will be completely non-weight-bearing on her affected leg, relying on crutches or a walker for mobility. During this time, simple tasks will be incredibly challenging, and she will be unable to work.

Beyond three months: This period will be focused on intensive physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.

Full recovery: It can take a full year or more to feel fully recovered and get back to a truly active life.

How Your Donation Will Help

While insurance will cover a portion of the costs, she will need help covering the significant expenses associated with this major procedure and recovery. Your generous donation will go toward:

Uncovered medical expenses: This includes deductibles, co-pays, and other medical equipment not fully covered by insurance (e.g., elevated toilet seat, shower aids, wheelchair rental).

Loss of income: As she will be unable to work during the initial, crucial months of recovery, your support will help her cover basic living expenses like rent, utilities, and groceries.

Intensive physical therapy: Recovering from a PAO is heavily reliant on physical therapy, which is not always fully covered by insurance. Your donation will ensure she gets the number of sessions needed to maximize my recovery.

A Hopeful Future

Her goal is not just to survive but to thrive. This surgery represents a chance for her to regain her independence, pursue her passions without debilitating pain, and have a higher quality of life. The combination of EDS and PCOS has tested her resilience, but with your help, she is hopeful for a future where she can move freely again.

Even if you can't donate, simply sharing her story with others would mean the world to her. Every share, every kind word, and every dollar helps.

Thank you for being a part of her healing journey.

With immense gratitude,

Amber Everhart’s family