Emma, a 24-year-old from Växjö, has openly shared her distress in an email to Aftonbladet, expressing her overwhelming fear of dying from starvation. This fear stems from her struggles with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), a hereditary connective tissue disorder that has dramatically impacted her life since 2017 when she experienced a collapsed lung during a school sports tournament. Following this incident, Emma has undergone multiple surgeries and has faced numerous health challenges that have left her emotionally and physically drained.

The complexities of EDS have led to frequent lung collapses and exacerbated gastrointestinal issues, contributing to Emma's deteriorating condition. She experiences significant nausea, to the point where she cannot manage without anti-nausea medication provided by home healthcare services. Emma's situation highlights the critical intersection of chronic illness and mental health, as her physical struggles are compounded by severe anxiety and a constant state of worry about her mortality due to her health-related financial and care challenges.

Emma has also mentioned that she has been advised by others to report her concerns to Ivo, the Health and Social Care Inspectorate in Sweden, but she feels lost on where to start. This highlights a larger issue facing individuals with chronic conditions who find it difficult to navigate the healthcare system and seek necessary support. Emma’s story reflects a growing concern for patient care quality and accessibility in Sweden, particularly for those with complex health conditions that require comprehensive management and emotional support.