Whilst Ellie was diagnosed with Elhlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) in early 2023 her journey to this point started 7 years prior to this. After surgery to correct a ruptured ACL at the age of 12 Ellie’s healing was slow and incredibly painful, leaving her bedridden as doctors were unaware of her condition. The concoction of painkillers given to Ellie led to epileptic seizures, hospitalisation and the need for three further surgeries.
A chance conversation in 2021 finally led to the diagnosis she needed but despite her struggles, and at such a young age, Ellie didn’t meet the criteria for an NHS funded lightweight wheelchair, which is where Donations with a Difference we able to step in. Throughout her battles she has maintained her education gaining 3 A ‘levels and whilst her dreams of becoming a Doctor are no longer possible she is now loving life in her new wheels which will allow her to pursue her studies at University of Greenwich to become a physiotherapist, a role she feels she allow her to give back and have a real understanding and empathy for her patients due to her own experiences.
Keep shining bright Ellie and perfecting those wheelies!
