A Practical Guide to Life with FA – a Column by Christina Cordaro

September 13, 2019September 10, 2019

3 Strategies for Enjoying Alcoholic Beverages with FA Challenges in Mind

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

My husband, Justin, and I have an annual tradition. Every summer, we go to our second-favorite city, Baltimore. We have been making this trip to “Charm City” for four ... Read more

September 6, 2019September 4, 2019

Accessibility Items Make the Best Birthday Gifts for Those with Disabilities

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

I celebrated my birthday Aug. 24. I wrote in my recent column about the importance of looking forward with a positive attitude despite my diagnosis of Friedreich’s ataxia (FA). ... Read more

August 30, 2019September 11, 2019

Navigating Social Situations with a Chronic Illness

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

My birthday was last weekend. I was so excited when my best friend, Lizz, and her bridesmaids decided to host Lizz’s bachelorette party that weekend. What better way to ... Read more

August 23, 2019September 11, 2019

Along with Celebrating My Birthday, I’m Also Planning for My Future

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

August is coming to an end. This is always my favorite time of year because my birthday rapidly approaches. To me, fall indicates a fresh start and signals new ... Read more

August 16, 2019August 13, 2019

Fatigue Is One of the Most Difficult Symptoms I Deal With

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) patients face multiple symptoms that can help confirm a diagnosis. The five most common symptoms are difficulty walking, sensory changes (such as hearing loss, involuntary eye ... Read more

August 9, 2019September 11, 2019

I Found My Happy Place with a Surf Chair by the Ocean

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

There is nothing better than the feeling of the ocean air in my hair while I bask in the hot summer sun on a beautiful beach. I’ve just described ... Read more

August 2, 2019August 28, 2019

A Plan for Parenthood: 4 Things We Considered

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

It is hard to believe that July has come and gone, and that the summer season is officially coming to an end. In addition, my birthday month, August, has ... Read more

July 26, 2019August 28, 2019

4 Solutions to Beat the Heat with FA Symptoms in Mind

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

Summertime is all about enjoying the outdoors with warm weather on your skin. The season is full of barbecues, family picnics, festivals, and more, with the people you enjoy ... Read more

July 19, 2019August 26, 2019

4 Physical Therapy Strategies That Help Me

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

Since receiving my diagnosis of Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) back in 2011, I have attended two series of physical therapy sessions. I was an outpatient at the local University of ... Read more

July 12, 2019August 12, 2019

Thank You, Trader Joe’s, for the Small Act of Kindness

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

As I mentioned in my previous column, my husband, Justin, and I like to complete our weekly chore of grocery shopping early in the morning. The two main reasons ... Read more

June 28, 2019August 8, 2019

My Parking Placard Is an Essential Tool in My Everyday Life

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

When a person lives with a chronic illness, such as Friedreich’s ataxia (FA), they will do anything to find shortcuts and ways to make life’s daily activities easier. Taking ... Read more

June 21, 2019August 7, 2019

A Tribute to My Dad for Father’s Day

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

Last Sunday was Father’s Day. One dedicated day to honor each of our parents is not enough in my view. Parents are often role models who are always there ... Read more

June 14, 2019August 2, 2019

As a Person with a Disability, Ali Stroker’s Tony Award Win Inspired Me

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

On June 9, 2019, history was made on live broadcast television for the disability community. Ali Stroker became the first wheelchair user to win a Tony Award, receiving the ... Read more

June 7, 2019August 5, 2019

A Medication Dosage Adjustment Has Helped to Relieve My Restless Legs

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

Lately, I have experienced a worsening of one of my most daunting symptoms of Friedreich’s ataxia (FA). I have numbness and pain in my arms and legs, which causes ... Read more

May 31, 2019May 29, 2019

Visiting a Historic Farmhouse for a Good Cause

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

I am originally from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, about 25 miles outside of Philadelphia. This beautiful area combines countryside with villages and downtown charms. It is rich in history, art, ... Read more

May 17, 2019May 16, 2019

Rain Won’t Stop Us from Curing FA!

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

After months of planning and executing, my family’s grassroots event, the 7th Annual Mother’s Day 5K Race for Christina, took place last Sunday, May 12. Two months ago, I ... Read more

May 10, 2019May 8, 2019

On Being a Bridesmaid for a Day

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

I remember feeling overjoyed and honored a year ago after I received a package in the mail. It was a small box containing beautiful gold-knot post earrings and a ... Read more

May 3, 2019May 1, 2019

Thanks to Planning and Support, My College Alumni Weekend Was a Success

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

This past weekend, I stepped back in time and visited my alma mater, Johnson & Wales University. I made the trip to attend the Providence Alumni Reunion Weekend with ... Read more

April 26, 2019June 28, 2019

It’s OK to Accept Help When You Need It

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

Living in a major city like Philadelphia, my go-to mode of transportation is the subway or the bus. My husband, Justin, has a car he parks close to our ... Read more

April 12, 2019June 21, 2019

Celebrate Your Victories, No Matter How Small

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

When living with Friedreich’s ataxia, one learns to accept “what is” and to celebrate small victories. For example, I have recently discovered that cleaning and tidying up around my one-bedroom ... Read more

April 5, 2019June 21, 2019

Thankful to Get Expert FA Care for My Checkup

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

I had my annual Friedreich’s ataxia checkup last week at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, which hosts a Friedreich’s Ataxia Center of Excellence for patients and their families. I’m very fortunate ... Read more

March 29, 2019May 15, 2019

Accepting Wheelchair Use for a Comfortable Day at the Museum

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

When my sister, brother, and I were younger, our parents would take us on trips to various museums. These memorable times included day trips to the art or science ... Read more

March 22, 2019April 18, 2019

Mom’s Care and a Little Planning Made for a Fun St. Paddy’s Eve

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

This past weekend was St. Patrick’s Day. Almost every bar, restaurant, and establishment had various specials going on all weekend since the holiday fell on a Sunday. The venue ... Read more

March 15, 2019April 5, 2019

How I Stay Active in Each Season of the Year

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

Daylight saving time happened last weekend, and the changing of the clocks heralded in longer days and warmer weather. I am eagerly anticipating the first day of spring on ... Read more

March 8, 2019March 22, 2019

How to Plan a Grassroots FA Event

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

Rare Disease Day was observed on Feb. 28. However, we don’t have to limit our advocacy to a single day. Every day is an opportunity to use our voices ... Read more

March 1, 2019March 13, 2019

Alone We Are Rare, but Together We Are Strong

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

People around the world observed Rare Disease Day on Thursday, which gives patients, caregivers, and advocates the opportunity to share their experiences and raise awareness of the more than 7,000 known ... Read more

February 22, 2019March 12, 2019

Managing Fatigue in the Workplace

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

In a given week, a full-time employee can work five days and 40 hours or more. With all of these hours, it can feel as though a workplace has ... Read more

February 8, 2019February 14, 2019

The Power Behind the FARA Patient Registry

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

Last month, I attended a PTC Therapeutics meeting with two other Friedreich’s ataxia patients named Kyle Bryant and Connor Sweeny, plus people who work for the Friedreich’s Ataxia Research ... Read more

February 1, 2019February 12, 2019

The Cure to Being Burdened by Shopping for Food

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

I used to enjoy going to the grocery store. I loved picking out items, seeing what’s new in stock, and hunting good deals in the store’s weekly ads. However, ... Read more

January 25, 2019February 1, 2019

Don’t Miss the Chance to Share Your FA Story

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

In a previous column, I wrote about the power of patient advocacy. I’m motivated to embrace advocacy in my everyday life to let the world know that disabilities come ... Read more

January 18, 2019January 29, 2019

Advocacy Is a Powerful Thing

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

I recently saw a news article about a bridal store in England that not only made a positive impact on one future bride’s life but also on others’. The White Collection ... Read more

January 11, 2019February 5, 2019

Setting a New Trend with Adaptive Wear

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

Everyone has a morning routine, a plan that sets the mood for the day. Most people become so used to the regimen that they carry out tasks on autopilot. ... Read more

January 4, 2019January 3, 2019

New Year, New Beginnings

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

An approaching new year means multiple things to different people. A new year can mean starting over or aspiring to new goals or resolutions. It is an appropriate time ... Read more

December 21, 2018February 20, 2019

The Calm Before the Storm

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

Let’s talk about what to do during the “calm before the storm.” And no, I am not talking about going to the grocery store during the holidays to fight ... Read more

December 14, 2018February 5, 2019

How I Decreased Fatigue, Part 2: Oiling Away the Pain

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

Editor’s note: This column discusses what has worked for Christina Logan, but others may not have the same results. Second in a two-part series. In last week’s column, I ... Read more

December 7, 2018February 6, 2019

How I Decreased Fatigue, Part 1: A Bed Fit for a Queen

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

Editor’s note: This column discusses what has worked for Christina Logan, but others may not have the same results. First in a series. Recently, I implemented two major life ... Read more

November 30, 2018March 5, 2019

General Admission Tickets Can Be a Gamble for People with FA

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

Thanks to Friedreich’s ataxia, I’m never more anxious than in an open crowd in a big space. While feeling hopeless and lost in space, a lot of mixed emotions ... Read more

November 16, 2018March 7, 2019

4 Tips for Preparing to Attend a Football Game

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

Navigating huge crowds at major events can cause great anxiety. For example, going to an arena concert or an NFL football game can include encounters with crazy fans, rude ... Read more

November 9, 2018March 7, 2019

Find a Workplace that Treats Your Disabilities with Dignity

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

In my hotel hospitality job, I can count on working long hours, multiple days in a row, and on holidays and weekends. I knew what I signed up for ... Read more

November 2, 2018November 2, 2018

Don’t Let Fear of Missing Out Spoil Your Trip

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

My husband Justin and I returned last week from our honeymoon in the Bahamas following our beautiful wedding on Oct. 20. I was determined that I wouldn’t let Friedreich’s ... Read more

October 19, 2018October 18, 2018

Never Fear Putting Yourself Out There

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

This is the final countdown. The big day has finally come. Tomorrow, Saturday, Oct. 20, I am marrying the man of my dreams, Justin. These days, it is hard ... Read more

October 12, 2018October 11, 2018

How Friedreich’s Ataxia Brought Me Closer to My Faith

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

My family and I have always been religious, with strong beliefs, faith, and morals. My mother is Catholic and raised my sister as such. My father, an Episcopalian, raised my ... Read more

October 5, 2018October 4, 2018

6 Tips to Prepare for rideATAXIA, the Big Bike Ride

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

Sweaty palms, excitement, hope, and motivation — I’m preparing to be in position at the starting line at the rideATAXIA Philly event. The annual bike ride takes place in Southern ... Read more

September 28, 2018March 7, 2019

Before Dining Out, We Do Our Research

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

Recently, I saw the following quote shared on social media. It stands out, particularly when I am making plans to go to various public places. “Ramps should be the standard. ... Read more

September 21, 2018March 7, 2019

Walk a Mile in an FAer’s Shoes

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

Shoes are essential for making a statement on one’s wardrobe and personality. This is especially true for me as a young woman with Friedreich’s ataxia. I want to be ... Read more

September 14, 2018March 8, 2019

Don’t Judge Yourself for Needing Help

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

The three-day Labor Day weekend often means relaxing and spending time with people you may not often see. This holiday, my fiancé Justin and I visited his hometown near ... Read more

August 31, 2018March 8, 2019

Tips for Traveling with Friedreich’s Ataxia

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

When you plan a destination or a weekend getaway, it is wise to make travel and transportation arrangements and detail an itinerary of what you will do while on ... Read more

August 24, 2018August 23, 2018

My Favorite Age Is Now

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

I know that birthdays can be tough for some patients living with Friedreich’s ataxia. It can be a reminder of how much this disease keeps taking from us each ... Read more

August 17, 2018August 16, 2018

An Introduction to a ‘Practical Guide to Life with FA’

A Practical Guide to Life with FA - a Column by Christina Cordaro, Columns

My name is Christina Logan, and doctors diagnosed me with the rare neuromuscular disorder Friedreich’s ataxia at the age of 21. I grew up in Holland, Pennsylvania, with my ... Read more