Beth Hendrickson

Welcome to our CaringBridge website. We are using it to keep family and friends updated in one place. We appreciate your support and words of hope and encouragement. Thank you for visiting.Hi, my name is Beth Hendrickson. I am 36 years old and began life 14 weeks early as a micro-preemie weighing 1 lb 9 oz. I been called a fighter and got through this early trauma seemingly unscathed. Always full of energy, I began gymnastics as a three year old and took it on seriously throughout my adolescents eventually to USGA competition. Following ankle surgeries, I “retired” but stayed active in the sport by coaching. I took several years off to pursue other interests and then started college to get a degree in personal training. It’s during this time that I have been diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (PoTS). I am presently unable to either work or go to school due to medical conditions. Ehlers Danlos is a connective tissue disorder. This diagnosis brought explanation for my numerous orthopedic issues, which are ongoing. My shoulders, knees, hips, neck, kneecaps as well as fingers and toes come out of joint with the stresses of everyday activities. PoTS is a condition that affects heart rhythms. With changes in posture, I could either faint or experience a racing heart rhythm. A NEADS dog would bring assistance and a new measure of safety and protection to my life. The dog would assist me in daily life.  If I get in trouble or need help, the dog would alert others. I could continue to pursue my education