Chronically Me

Hi! My name is Sierra Erdman-Luntz. I am now 24 years old, working my dream job, and live independently all while coping with hEDS and co. Specifically, I’m diagnosed with hEDS, POTS, MALS, occipital neuralgia, thoracic outlet syndrome, migraines, anemia and have suspected MCAS and endometriosis. I’ve been central line dependent for the last almost 3 years for my hydration due to a combination of my gi issues, inability to tolerate water, and severe POTS. I now have a wonderful team of...

Hi, my name is Addie Carroll and this is my story.  At the young age of 10, I was living a normal life as any 4th grader would. I was always out going, not shy and was always able to be myself. I enjoyed making new friends at my new elementary school I had recently transferred to. Around the first quarter of my 4th grade year, I had a normal strep infection. Everyone gets them so I started to carry on with my life until I woke up a completely different person one morning. A flip had switched...

Students with chronic illness often move through school in ways that aren’t immediately visible. Managing health often happens alongside assignments and expectations that rarely adjust to those realities. Many students learn to balance doctor appointments with homework and navigate environments that don’t always understand what they’re experiencing. The voices below share pieces of that reality. These reflections come directly from students living with chronic illness, offering a glimpse into...