Equitable Care: Empowering Marginalized Voices in EDS and HSD

The Ehlers-Danlos Society was thrilled to welcome an incredible keynote panel to its 2024 Global Learning Conference in Philadelphia, to discuss how to ensure equitable care for all individuals with Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) and hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD), particularly those from marginalized communities.

Keynote Panel from left to right:

Dr. Akilah Cadet is the Founder and CEO of Change Cadet, an organizational development consulting firm that embeds belonging into company culture and strategy. She is a passionate advocate for dismantling white supremacy and supporting marginalized communities. Dr. Cadet is also a member of The Ehlers-Danlos Society’s board of directors.

Sabra Thomas is a patient advocate who has hypermobile EDS. Her journey of self-advocacy began at a young age, and she continues to educate and support others within the EDS and HSD community.

Danielle Medina is a disability and rare disease advocate, dedicated to raising awareness about vascular EDS and promoting accessibility in various sectors, including fashion and entertainment.

Mars Lombardi is a patient expert, disability justice activist, and current candidate for a Master's in Speech-Language Pathology. Their work includes legislative activism, public health education, and accessible arts education.

Professor Lara Bloom, CNE, is the President and CEO of The Ehlers-Danlos Society.

Michelle Jalali is the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the NBA Portland Trail Blazers and owner of Jalali Consulting LLC. She is also a member of the Ehlers-Danlos Society’s board of directors. Michelle chaired this incredible panel, emphasizing the need to remove barriers to access and quality care across various demographic groups.