Cerebral Cavernous Malformation With Elizabeth From Oregon and Allison from DC Artwork

Rare Connection

Formerly Nutrition Equity, rare connection is an extension of the podcast to include all 10,000 rare conditions and not just those covered by the Medical Nutrition Equity Act. Some of the conditions may be the same, but I am trying to turn this into a learning experience for those in the medical feild, policy leaders, and those who are just interested in hearing about rare conditions and patient stories. Rare conditions are called zebras hence the zebra striped ribbon. More common conditions are called horses. Doctors tend to learn a lot about the common conditions, but rare conditions are a paragraph in a text book at best because the medical field isn't looking at the whole picture. Rare conditions when combined are actually bigger than cancer and strokes combined and if you have a rare condition you most likely have more than one or will develop another within your lifetime. As someone with a rare condition myself (Homocystinuria or HCU), know that having a rare condition can be very lonely. Thereis normally a phsycological aspect to any rare condition, and because of lack of understanding they often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed which can cause serious health consequences or even death. If you are interested in talking and feel comfortable on camera please contact me at joanna.ball41@gmail.com. I have a visual version of this podcast on YouTube also under my cooking channel Rare Chef.

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Rare Connection

Cerebral Cavernous Malformation With Elizabeth From Oregon and Allison from DC

March 16, 2025 • Joanna • Season 4 • Episode 7

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Guest(s): Allison & Elizabeth

Episode Summary

In this episode of Rare Connection, I’m joined by twin sisters Allison and Elizabeth, who both have familial Cerebral Cavernous Malformation (CCM)—a rare genetic condition that causes clusters of abnormal blood vessels in the brain and spinal cord. They share their personal diagnosis journeys, how CCM has impacted their lives, and the ways they manage symptoms and advocate for awareness.

Topics Covered:

✅ How Allison & Elizabeth were diagnosed with CCM
✅ Symptoms, treatments, and lifestyle adjustments
✅ The genetic and family impact of CCM
✅ Nutrition and diet considerations for managing symptoms
✅ Advocacy, research, and the future of CCM treatment

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