Sara Geurts was only 10 years old when she was diagnosed with a rare skin condition called Dermatosparaxis Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.
Known in the short-hand as EDS, this disease is a connective tissue disorder that inhibits the body’s ability to produce collagen.
In the case of Geurts, this means her skin produces the sort of wrinkles you’d never expect to see on a 26-year old.
Yes, Sara Geurts is only 26 years old.
You may need to remind yourself of that fact as you click through the aspiring model’s very inspiring photos, and learn more about her story, below…
Geurts is on a Mission
“My skin was my biggest insecurity, but now I think it’s the most beautiful thing ever,” says Sara, who was born in Minneapolis, but who now resides in Los Angeles. She aims to inspire others who think they’re “ugly” by traditional standards.
Be Proud of Your Imperfections
“Each imperfection you have is individual to you, and it tells a story about you and who you are, and the struggle and the journey that you have been on,” she says.
A Viral Sensation
In 2015, sGeurtse submitted her story to the Love Your Lines campaign, a project that praises women’s fauts and imperfections. Her latest video, produced by Barcroft TV, has thus far been viewed almost two million times.
She’s Only 26 Years Old
We said that already, we know. But we say it again to show appreciate for the bravery Geurts is showing by posing in this manner.
Sage Words of Wisdom
“You’re going to meet people who are intimidated by you,†Sara wrote on Instagram recently. “You’re different. People don’t know how to react or how to accept someone who doesn’t follow the crowd.”
About These Critics, Though?
“They are not used to someone who doesn’t try to fit in. So instead of bolstering your uniqueness, they’ll try and make you feel like you’re weird or damaged. I’m here to offer some well earned advice: Screw them.”
She’s a “Body Positive Activist”
That’s what she calls herself on Instagram. We love it!
Help Her Spread the Word
Follow Geurts on Instagram at “@sarageurts.” Go boost her follower count.
A Pretty Major Change
This is what Sara looked like before the disease took over her body.
A Brave Bikini Body
Would you be able to show off your figure in this context if you were affected in this manner? We doubt we would.
We’re Huge Fans of Hers
We admire Geurts for turning what many would consider a negative into such a huge positive.
Bold is Beautiful
And this is almost as bold as it gets.
We’ll Drink to You, Sara!
Bottoms way up! You’ve earned our admiration.