LearnEDS.org

April  is a Registered Nurse who graduated in Nursing from Our Lady of the Lake College in 2001.  She was a hospice nurse but now volunteers her time supporting persons affected by EDS, Dysautonomia, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and other related disorders.  She wants to do everything she can to help others feel supported.  She is committed to helping ensure a better Louisiana where EDS and related conditions are better understood, treated, and supported.

Mona is a pillar in her community.  She is a school teacher with an undergraduate degree in psychology and elementary education (K-8th grade).  She has a Masters Degree in Education, with a gifted certification in administration and supervision of Early Childhood/Special Education.  During her 40 year career, she has taught from the ages of birth through 21 years of age in varied settings of public, private and parochial schools as well as a children’s hospital, an adolescent psychiatric facility and homebound students.

Sammy Jo graduated with a degree in Applied Sciences, as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist. She was also an active member within the bodybuilding and fitness communities before her symptoms progressed to a point that made her unable to continue to actively participate. ​Sammy Jo was diagnosed with Dysautonomia shortly after suffering a stroke in 2018. Since then, she has been diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome(POTS) with underlying bradycardic disease, Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD), and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS).​

​Stacey is 44 years old and is married to her husband, Kirk. She says he is a very patient and endearing man who makes her laugh just about every day! They have two intelligent and well-mannered teenage boys, Evan & Adam. Evan is 17 years old and enjoys powerlifting and is fascinated by science! Adam is 14 and is a computer tech/gamer who aspires to become a programmer! They live in Ville Platte with their Australian Shepherd named Indy.   Stacey has worked full time for Schlumberger for the past 15 years, and has held positions in Quotes, Inside Sales and Shipping. 

Jessica graduated from military school with honors and continued her education with the Louisiana National Guard Challenge program and received a degree in carpentry. After fighting for her own health and succeeding, she’s now developed a love for helping others. Jessica is now assisting the team of leaders in the EDS Louisiana, Inc. where she enjoys doing research and reaching out to help others, like herself, to help connect the dots in this rare, yet not so rare, disorder.

Angelle is a dedicated elementary school teacher, earning a Masters Degree in Elementary Education with a 4.0 GPA. Angelle was born and raised in the New Orleans area, and lives with her husband Eddie, and daughters Eliza and Tayla in Jean Lafitte. Angelle created a Facebook group for those in Louisiana to share their stories and information about all forms of EDS. The Louisiana EDS Zebras group now boasts over 1000 members. 

Mary Ann worked as the Assistant Director of Volunteer Services at Children's Hospital in New Orleans for 25 years where she was responsible for interviewing potential volunteers, managing the database, and coordinating volunteer schedules/placement. Her department recruited and managed large groups of volunteers for special events/fundraisers. 

Stephanie loves being active in her community and helping comes naturally to her.  She was finally diagnosed with EDS at almost thirty years of age as well as hyperandernergic POTS, immune deficiency, and other hEDS issues over the years after feeling defeated with the lack understanding by her local medical professionals. Stephanie serves as our Covington Support Group leader and is looking forward to helping us start our Tween Support Group.

Justin is a loving husband to his wife, Niki, and is an incredible father to his two little boys, Cash and Colton. He and his little family have kept high spirits through this entire journey and have not stopped fighting, no matter what it's taken. Justin swore through his entire fight, that when he finally found out what was going on, he would become the biggest advocate for people like him. He does not want anyone to ever have to go through what he went through. On May 20th, 2021,  Justin finally received answers, a diagnosis, and reassurance that he is not crazy. He is very excited for this incredible opportunity to spread awareness and meet other zebras out there who are like him.

Chelsea is our Research & Resources Director. Chelsea received the diagnosis of Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) in January of 2019 after 26 years of unexplained pain and comorbidities.   Chelsea has enjoyed being a part of the growing EDS community in Louisiana and is passionate about increasing public awareness about EDS/HSD and other related conditions, especially through education within the college setting.  She has always enjoyed doing research and is now excited about heading up our Research & Resources Department.