EDS Texas and the University of Houston College of Optometry proudly present Lara Bloom, the first Ehlers-Danlos patient to walk the London Marathon, sharing her documentary, "Issues with my Tissues".

Lara Bloom became the first person with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) to walk the London Marathon in 2011. She fractured her foot on the 13th mile but continued to the Finish line raising over £10,500 for EDS UK. This compelling documentary of her journey features interviews with medical professionals, families with EDS and individuals who have suffered from misdiagnosis.

EDS is a genetic connective tissue disorder defined by the association of joint instability, widespread musculoskeletal pain and multi-systemic complications.

Lara Bloom is the CEO of EDS International, a newly formed organization trying to make the invisible, visible for those with EDS. They will be hosting a symposium in New York City in May 2016, with the support of generous funding from EDS UK and the Ehlers-Danlos National Foundation. The primary goal is to reclassify the diagnostic criteria for all the types of EDS and create universal guidelines for management by medical professionals.

After the 50 minute film, Lara Bloom will be hosting a discussion and Q&A.

Join us for an inspirational evening!

FAQs:

Is there handicap parking near the event building?

Yes. There are 11 handicap spots and additional parking for mobility impaired near The Vision Institute (the J. Davis Armistead Building). Please do not park in spaces marked "Njoy" or "Surgery"

Can I drop off family/friends near the entrance?

Yes. We plan on having volunteers to guide you in the parking lot and at the door.

What is the cost of parking?

No cost for parking outside the Alumni Building. Only if overflow parking is needed would there be a $4 charge for all day parking at the "Welcome Center Student Parking Garage" across Calhoun Road.

May I bring my children?

A Quiet room is available for families with small children to be used as needed.

How can I help raise awareness?

For more information about the 2016 EDS International Symposium:

http://ednf.org/eds-international-symposium-2016

How can I donate?

https://donatenow.networkforgood.org/2016symposium

Research and knowledge benefits everyone.

Please be advised, the designated parking garage may CHANGE on the day of the event due to construction of a new building adjacent to The Vision Institute. An email will be sent the day before the event updating parking options.