Looking ahead after a dozen years with Friedreich’s ataxia
When I was 25 years old, on Aug. 19, 2013, my life forever changed. Together with my parents and husband, I got the answer we’d long sought about why my balance was progressively,…
My Darling Disability
— Kendall Harvey
Kendall Harvey is a wife and mother of two in Austin, Texas. She has been navigating life with Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) since her diagnosis in 2013 at the age of 25. She worked in marketing before “retiring” to be a stay-at-home-mom. She is an optimistic warrior fighting for a better future free of FA. Until that day comes, she aspires to inspire others with her column by detailing personal life lessons about grit and grace. Kendall shares a message of hope despite disability.
Featured Post
A bad fall at home, and my worst fear realized, part 1
First of a two-part series. On Sept. 6, 2025, my worst fear happened. It felt inevitable. I am 100% dependent on mobility aids due to poor balance and coordination with Friedreich’s…
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Back-to-school season mirrors big changes in my life with FA
Mid-August is generally recognized as back-to-school time for those with school-age children or who work in education. Our television programs are flooded with commercials for the latest and greatest in children’s fashion trends and…
There’s a way to move forward, even if it’s now in a wheelchair
Sometimes life with Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) can feel smooth, all things considered. Now and then, the accommodations my disabilities demand or the adaptations my symptom progression requires don’t seem that intrusive. I feel…
A simple reply that quenched curiosity and promoted acceptance
I’m 100% dependent on mobility aids due to my current stage of Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) progression. Given that, there’s never been a shortage of reactions by others to my various walkers and wheelchairs.
Identifying and addressing your own needs is vital in life with FA
Being able to recognize your needs is a big sign of maturity. As a parent, I’ve had a front-row seat as my two young children, who have very different personalities, learn to recognize when…
Reminding myself that my worth isn’t defined by my ability
I’ve been struggling with my mental health lately. I’ve been grappling with feelings of inadequacy rooted in my Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) and subsequent inability to be an independent and effortless helper in my…
How a different perspective offers lessons to learn
Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) can feel incredibly isolating. I’m fairly certain that rings true for most people going through life with a rare disease. Because FA is so rare, affecting only about 1…
Tough circumstances complicated by FA don’t equal a bad life
Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) is hard. Its symptoms are far-reaching and its progression can feel relentless and inescapable. When you give it the power, FA can make good or mundane days feel bad, and…
