The Truth About Ed’s “Disease” on 90 Day Fiance: What Fans Need to Know
When Ed Brown, also known as “Big Ed,” first appeared on the hit reality show “90 Day Fiance: Before the 90 Days,” fans were introduced to a man with a towering personality and a noticeable physical abnormality. As the series progressed, however, fans began to question the nature of Ed’s condition, with some speculating that it was a made-up story designed to gain sympathy from viewers.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the truth about Ed’s “disease” and examine some of the key factors that distinguish it from other medical conditions.
So, What is Ed’s “Disease” Exactly?
For those who haven’t watched the series, Ed’s “disease” refers to a physical abnormality that causes him to have a shorter-than-average neck. The condition, known as Klippel-Feil syndrome, is a rare genetic disorder that affects roughly 1 in every 40,000 people.
While the disorder is certainly real, some fans have expressed skepticism about the severity of Ed’s case. In particular, some have questioned whether his condition prevents him from engaging in physical activities like swimming, as he’s claimed on the show.
Separating Fact From Fiction
While it’s easy to be skeptical of reality show drama, in this case, there’s good reason to believe that Ed is telling the truth about his condition.
Klippel-Feil syndrome can lead to a wide range of physical abnormalities, including spinal curvature, deformities of the ribs or lungs, and reduced mobility in the neck. While not all individuals with the condition experience these symptoms, it’s clear that Ed’s case is severe enough to cause him significant discomfort.
In addition, Ed’s claim that he’s unable to swim is entirely plausible, as individuals with Klippel-Feil syndrome often experience respiratory issues as a result of their condition. Swimming can be a particularly challenging activity for those with respiratory problems, and it’s possible that Ed has had to avoid the activity to protect his health.
Why the Sudden Attention?
While Ed’s condition may be rare, it’s not entirely unheard of. So why has his appearance on “90 Day Fiance” caused such a stir?
For one, the show has a history of highlighting physical abnormalities in its casts, and many viewers have grown weary of what they see as exploitative tactics. In addition, some fans have bristled at Ed’s claims that he’s a “hero” for overcoming his condition; to them, it comes across as self-congratulatory and insincere.
In reality, however, Ed’s story is an important one. Individuals with rare conditions often face significant challenges in their daily lives, from physical discomfort to discrimination and difficulty accessing healthcare. By sharing his experiences on national television, Ed has raised awareness about Klippel-Feil syndrome and helped to increase empathy for those grappling with similar conditions.
Key Takeaways
As with any reality show controversy, there’s no shortage of opinions when it comes to Ed’s “disease.” Nevertheless, there are a few key takeaways that viewers should keep in mind.
First, Klippel-Feil syndrome is a real and fairly uncommon genetic disorder that can cause significant physical complications. While there may be some debate about the severity of Ed’s case, there’s no reason to doubt that he’s been impacted by his condition in meaningful ways.
Second, it’s important to remember that individuals with rare medical conditions often face unique challenges that can impact their lives in substantial ways. Raising awareness about these conditions can help to increase empathy and spur more research into potential treatments.
Finally, while reality television can be a notoriously unreliable window into real life, it’s worth taking the time to consider how the media shapes our perceptions of individuals with disabilities or medical conditions. By approaching shows like “90 Day Fiance” with a critical eye, we can help to ensure that all stories, true or not, are told with nuance and empathy.
