Reviews and Awards
for Hypermobile and Happy
EXPERT REVIEW: "The book is a must. I have learned and enjoyed it altogether. I have recommended it since it contains several terrific messages. First, the positive view which has managed to bring a smile to many of my patients. Second, the detailed list of informative issues, which allow learning of this exquisite update. Third, because it provides a comprehensive view of this complex disorder without the often found "silo" biases in the medical world." ~Dr. Antonio Bulbena, MD, PhD, Msc, Professor and Chairman of Psychiatry at the Autonomous University of Barcelona, Director of Research at the Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Addictions; member of the Ehlers-Danlos Society; his main discovery has been the relationship between anxiety disorders and joint hyperlaxity syndrome; he has published 250 articles, 100 chapters in books, and 2 books.
"Wow! I've been digging into your book. May I just say how refreshing it is to have access to so much information and links. Your book is remarkably thorough. Although many of your practices I currently implement, I'm learning new techniques to try... I'm learning more about myself and how to navigate my uniqueness... You are doing God's work. I'm beyond grateful for you." ~Nancy
"I haven't purchased an actual book in a while, but on my hunt to get to the root cause instead of chucking back pharmaceuticals that so many docs push to pacify you, and ruining whatever good parts of my body I have left, I came across a group. This author/member had a similar story. I've lived with this since I can remember...so when I opened this book randomly to this chapter [Growing Pains], I about cried... Thank you for writing this and sharing yours and your family's story. Def some good tips. I'll def be recommending it. Maybe buy a copy for each of my 49 docs and the 987 Brown Medical students." ~Yma
"I'm in awe of the number of topics and the amount of work, both research and writing, you obviously put into this book... Thanks for sharing all your amazing experiences, research, and recommendations! ~Jozanna
EXPERT REVIEW: "Since being diagnosed with POTS and EDS, I’ve spent a lot of time researching what works for me and what doesn’t. Among the resources I’ve come across, one book has truly been a blessing: Hypermobile and Happy: Naturally Heal Symptoms of Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders, and Many Secondary Conditions by Shannon E. Gale. I was fortunate to connect with Shannon in a Facebook group for people with dysautonomia, where she recommended her book. After reading it, I can confidently say I recommend it to others for several reasons.
During my time as a teacher, I had to complete various health training sessions. One of the most impactful things I learned was from a nurse who spoke about chronic illness: while healthcare workers can be helpful, the people who truly understand what you’re going through are those with the same condition. They’re the real experts. That’s how I felt reading Shannon’s book—she is someone who truly understands. She’s clearly done extensive research and cites numerous credible sources throughout, but what stood out to me the most was her clear desire to help others living with dysautonomia. As anyone with a chronic illness knows, that feeling of isolation can be overwhelming, and Shannon’s book makes it clear she’s committed to alleviating that loneliness. It felt like she was right there with me, offering support.
Shannon covers a wide range of topics, many of which I hadn’t even considered. From harmful chemicals to secondary conditions commonly associated with EDS, she opens up new avenues of understanding. She even includes recipes for homemade cleaning products and special syrups to help you reduce harmful chemicals in your life.
One section of the book that particularly fascinated me was about the power of prayer and meditation. As a lifelong Catholic, these practices have always been part of my daily routine, but Shannon goes a step further by citing studies showing that praying for someone/sending good vibes their way can actually improve their chances of recovery and resilience. I was intrigued by this idea and appreciated learning about how different cultures incorporate similar practices into their healing.
Overall, this book is an essential guide for anyone living with EDS, suspecting they may have it, or supporting someone on that journey." ~Maddie B. Whites, Book Reviewer
"Since the eye-scapades, reading has taken me longer and longer but I have finished this fab hEDS book by Shannon. It is a really comprehensive read covering around 38 conditions associated with hEDS and I found myself nodding along a lot. Shannon’s experiences mirror many of mine as well so I felt less lonely reading it, for many years I thought it was only me (also what doctors told me) - I love that many Zebras put into action so many things that help our community.... Thanks Shannon for this book, really made me so much more curious and be more aware of what works for me!" ~Lorraine
WINNER, INTERNATIONAL IMPACT BOOK AWARD February 2025 Health Category