Who is The Zebra Medic®?

Meet Jessy — a highly experienced paramedic with over 20 years of service in both Germany and the United States. After being diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a rare connective tissue disorder, she began combining her medical expertise with lived experience to advocate for others navigating rare and complex health conditions.

 

Jessy now works as a patient advocate, supporting individuals with rare and chronic illnesses as they navigate medical systems, care coordination, and daily life. She is also a writer and co-author, with ongoing academic publications and a forthcoming book focused on the lived experience of rare disease.

 

Jessy holds a Master of Science in Psychology and plans to continue on to a PhD in Social Psychology, exploring how psychosocial factors shape the lives and identities of people with rare illnesses. She is a CITI-certified research professional and also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Sociology.

 

Through this blog, Jessy shares her unique perspective as both clinician and patient — offering insight, education, and encouragement for individuals and families affected by rare conditions.

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Credentials & Certifications:

• Master of Science (MS) in Psychology

• CITI-Certified in Human Research

• Nationally Registered Paramedic (NRP)​​​​

• SHINPIDEN Reiki Master & Teacher

• EURORDIS International Advocate for Rare Diseases

• Certified Health & Wellness Coach

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Publications: 

Navigating the Psychosocial Landscape of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: An Autobiographic Case Study

Discover Mental Health (Springer Nature)

 

Bubble-Wrap & Battle Plans: Notes from a Medically Fragile Badass

Status: In progress — a bold, personal exploration of living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, told with grit, humor, and unfiltered honesty.

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