41. Changing the Face of EDS with Camille Schrier, Miss America 2020

In this podcast episode, Camille Schrier, Miss America 2020, shares her journey of living with Classical Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and how her diagnosis helped her make sense of the challenges she faced. Diagnosed at age 11, Camille explains her diagnostic odyssey and emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and having healthcare providers who listen. She discusses the impact of EDS on her life, both physically and mentally, including the fatigue and difficulties she faced with frequent travel as Miss America. Camille also advocates for a more holistic approach to EDS management, including nonpharmacological interventions like electrolyte supplementation. Additionally, the episode highlights Camille's work in advocating for drug safety and education through her initiative "Mind Your Meds" and her efforts to de-stigmatize mental health issues and substance use disorders. Camille underscores the importance of using platforms like Miss America to bring attention to underrepresented health conditions like EDS and challenges stereotypes around chronic illnesses.