“I remember screaming, and crying, while joints slipped and twisted in agonizing ways, as I rock my child, and try to soothe him back to sleep. I wonder how to tell him, that Ehlers-Danlos plays for keeps Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a mistake in our genetic code, they say we were bored with it, and we will bear it when old, there is no cure, no saving grace.” Brandie wrote in her poem—That Resonates With Your EDS/HSD Journey
Brandie is a 37-year-old mom and disabled veteran whose life has been profoundly shaped by a series of chronic health conditions. Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Hypersomnia, Migraines, Fibromyalgia, TMJD, and a Vestibular Disorder, she faces a daily battle with symptoms that are often invisible to the outside world. Some of these illnesses are hereditary, others acquired, and a few remain a medical mystery.
Determined to shed light on these challenges, Brandie has created a channel to share her story. Her goal is to raise awareness about how these conditions impact not only her life but also her family’s. Through her videos, Brandie opens up about her journey—searching for better treatments, managing an array of symptoms, and adapting to everyday hurdles. She also documents her efforts to secure a diagnosis and care plan for her son, hoping to prevent future suffering.
Brandie’s story is one of resilience and advocacy. By sharing her experiences, she aims to foster understanding, offer support, and build a community that helps bring invisible illnesses into focus.
Her story, shared through social media, deeply resonated with the VOCIC team. Upon learning about the immense psychological strain and financial burden Brandie faced in her daily life due to limited mobility, VOCIC was moved to provide her with a V62 power chair.
The V62 power chair has done more than just restore her ability to move freely—it has alleviated her anxiety about the future and significantly reduced the cost of caregiving. This has allowed her to redirect her energy and resources toward nurturing her child’s education and personal growth.
“This isn’t just a wheelchair; it’s a testament to the kindness of others and a reminder that things truly can get better,” Brandie shared.
“After pulling it out of the box, it was pretty easy to put together as I only had to add the stabilizers, batteries, and joystick to the chair.” She was particularly impressed by the simplicity of the assembly, noting that within minutes, the V62 was ready to transform her life.
“After unfolding it I like that the joystick can be installed on the left or right side for ease of use and has easy-to-read speed and charge indicator light has some nice safety features added with a wide attached seat belt a button and responsive brake system that was even strong enough to stop me from running away down our steep driveway as we headed out it has five different speeds with.” The wheelchair’s five-speed adjustment feature and whisper-quiet motor design also allowed Brandie’s dogs to peacefully accompany her during the test run, unbothered by any noise.
“The responsive joystick and the motor are even quiet enough not to bother my dogs when they insisted on inviting themselves along with us out on our test,” Brandie said.
“The V62 is also great for travel with two batteries for a maximum range of up to 20 per charge a light frame that is only about 60 lbs and folds up to about the size of a suitcase making it relatively easy to fit into most trunks hatchbacks and truck beds” The large tires were able to keep Brandie from tipping over when she got too excited and drove herself over the curb into the neighbor’s yard and they even able to easily handle the gap and the raised lip in the front of the mat that leads up to my driveway.
In this world, people like Brandie are far from rare. To the outside world, they may seem like an ordinary group, even surprising others with the simplicity of their travels. However, their lives are far more complex than they appear, with every step filled with unseen effort and determination. They long for freedom, for a little support, and for society to treat them with kindness and compassion.
VOCIC is not just a business; we are a partner committed to bringing warmth into their lives. Whether by offering new products or through our second-hand exchange program, we aim to provide tangible support both materially and emotionally. If you, like Brandie, face challenges or have ideas, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We firmly believe that every person in need deserves a helping hand.
The image of Brandie testing the V62 alongside her son is truly moving. As they shared laughter in their familiar neighborhood, she not only embraced newfound freedom of movement but also experienced the pure joy of being with her child. For individuals like her, a simple outing is indeed precious, yet the time spent at home with loved ones can be just as comforting, offering a different kind of peace.
If today is an "okay day," take a moment to enjoy the quiet with your family in outdoor travel. If today isn’t, then rest well, nestled on the couch with those you love. Even in stillness, there is a kind of unspoken happiness.
The world may not be perfect, but we have the power to make it a little better. Helping one another creates warmth that not only supports those in need but also makes us all sources of light. This is the essence of VOCIC's mission and the path we continue to walk.
