Lauren

Living with the genetic disorder Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Lauren has faced many physical challenges throughout her life. But instead of asking, “Why me?” Lauren sees her journey as a testament to her strength. “I know I am the perfect person to navigate some very difficult journeys,” she says. It’s this perspective, rooted in resilience, that has carried Lauren through countless obstacles and helped her transform her life in remarkable ways.

For Lauren, staying active and continuing to explore the world has always been her goal. But the road to achieving that hasn’t been easy. Learning to walk with C-Braces, advanced orthotic devices that assist with mobility, was a greuling process. “The learning curve for walking well in the C-Braces is brutal,” she shares, “but the end result has been so liberating and filled with endless possibilities of things I can now do.” Those possibilities have fueled her determination and shown her what’s possible with perseverance and the right support system.

Lauren credits much of her progress to her orthotist and physical therapists. “I owe it all to my orthotist for seeing the potential and my physical therapists for helping me reach that potential. Truly life-changing!” She’s also quick to acknowledge the role her husband, family, friends, and coworkers have played, motivating her every step of the way.

One of Lauren’s proudest moments came in the latter part of 2024, when she competed in a walking challenge with her colleagues. Just a year earlier, walking a mile unassisted would have been impossible. But with her C-Braces, Lauren not only participated—she won, walking nearly 400 miles. “The first time I walked even a few steps without locking up was such an amazing feeling,” she recalls. “That challenge reminded me of how far I’ve come.”

Now, Lauren is thriving in ways she once thought unimaginable. She runs errands on her own, attends concerts and events with friends, visits museums, and explores the world without limitations. “I’m so active now, and it’s helped me to have more energy,” she shares. “I can walk almost anywhere I want!”

Lauren’s journey has also allowed her to channel her determination into her career. “I am lucky to be the director of a state Council for Independent Living, which is composed of, in majority, people with disabilities working to improve access and independence,” she says. This role enables Lauren to advocate for change, using her own experiences to support others navigating their paths to independence.

When asked what advice she would give to others navigating their own challenges, Lauren speaks with wisdom and compassion. “Change takes time. It’s almost never comfortable. Always be as patient and kind to yourself as you would be with someone else you love. Disability isn’t an ending; you will absolutely amaze yourself with your resilience and strength.”

Lauren’s story is one of persistence, empowerment, and redefining what’s possible. Her journey reminds us that even in the face of adversity, we are capable of more than we could ever imagine.

Living with the genetic disorder Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Lauren has faced many physical challenges throughout her life. But instead of asking, “Why me?” Lauren sees her journey as a testament to her strength. “I know I am the perfect person to navigate some very difficult journeys,” she says. It’s this perspective, rooted in resilience, that has carried Lauren through countless obstacles and helped her transform her life in remarkable ways.

For Lauren, staying active and continuing to explore the world has always been her goal. But the road to achieving that hasn’t been easy. Learning to walk with C-Braces, advanced orthotic devices that assist with mobility, was a greuling process. “The learning curve for walking well in the C-Braces is brutal,” she shares, “but the end result has been so liberating and filled with endless possibilities of things I can now do.” Those possibilities have fueled her determination and shown her what’s possible with perseverance and the right support system.

Lauren credits much of her progress to her orthotist and physical therapists. “I owe it all to my orthotist for seeing the potential and my physical therapists for helping me reach that potential. Truly life-changing!” She’s also quick to acknowledge the role her husband, family, friends, and coworkers have played, motivating her every step of the way.

One of Lauren’s proudest moments came in the latter part of 2024, when she competed in a walking challenge with her colleagues. Just a year earlier, walking a mile unassisted would have been impossible. But with her C-Braces, Lauren not only participated—she won, walking nearly 400 miles. “The first time I walked even a few steps without locking up was such an amazing feeling,” she recalls. “That challenge reminded me of how far I’ve come.”

Now, Lauren is thriving in ways she once thought unimaginable. She runs errands on her own, attends concerts and events with friends, visits museums, and explores the world without limitations. “I’m so active now, and it’s helped me to have more energy,” she shares. “I can walk almost anywhere I want!”

Lauren’s journey has also allowed her to channel her determination into her career. “I am lucky to be the director of a state Council for Independent Living, which is composed of, in majority, people with disabilities working to improve access and independence,” she says. This role enables Lauren to advocate for change, using her own experiences to support others navigating their paths to independence.

When asked what advice she would give to others navigating their own challenges, Lauren speaks with wisdom and compassion. “Change takes time. It’s almost never comfortable. Always be as patient and kind to yourself as you would be with someone else you love. Disability isn’t an ending; you will absolutely amaze yourself with your resilience and strength.”

Lauren’s story is one of persistence, empowerment, and redefining what’s possible. Her journey reminds us that even in the face of adversity, we are capable of more than we could ever imagine.