About this episode
At just 12 years old, Giusiana Prosser began experiencing medical symptoms that would change her life — symptoms that were dismissed, minimized, and misunderstood for years.After being told it was “all in her head,” Giusiana never stopped advocating for herself. At 19, she was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, and at 21 with Andersen–Tawil Syndrome, finally giving a name to what her body had known all along. Today, she also lives with a tethered spinal cord.Now a artist, rare disease advocate, motivational speaker, and Ms. Wheelchair Washington USA, Giusiana uses her platform to challenge misconceptions around disability and share a powerful truth: “Rare isn’t rare.”In this episode, Giusiana opens up about growing up without answers, the emotional toll of not being believed, and how self-advocacy became her lifeline. She also shares how art, purpose, and resilience continue to shape her journey — including her upcoming path to Ms. Wheelchair USA 2026 and her artwork being featured at the Kennedy Center.This is a story about finding your voice, demanding to be heard, and choosing to live fully — even when the world doesn’t make it easy.? Press play and meet Giusiana Prosser.
