
Why a ZEBRA Companion?
The Ehlers-Danlos Society explains… Why the Zebra? – The Ehlers Danlos Society
The zebra has become a powerful symbol for the rare‑disease community. In medicine, students are taught, “When you hear hoofbeats, think horses, not zebras,” meaning common conditions are most likely. But rare‑disease patients are the zebras—uncommon, often overlooked, and uniquely patterned. The zebra reminds us to look deeper, listen carefully, and recognize that every patient’s story is one‑of‑a‑kind.
“My Story led me to identify as a Zebra. My journey is not over. Zebras need Zebras to “Dazzle”. Let’s Dazzle as Companions” –Cynthia Eide