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

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Isn’t that what everyone is singing and saying? Christmas music is playing wherever you go, houses are decorated with lights, and the aroma of wood fires fills the cold, winter air. It is also a time of gift-giving, marketing campaigns, parties, and…

Since my diagnosis with Friedreich’s ataxia (FA), I have learned something about myself. I realize that when making plans, I must consider my needs, including accessibility, and I try to help other people understand, too. When I arrange an outing with my family or friends, I easily become anxious and…

Every fall, I find myself being thankful for my family and friends and hoping that they are in good health. I am also grateful for the relationships I have with other Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) patients and their families. These individuals leave me full of gratitude, not only because they teach…

“It is time,” I thought to myself. A number of loved ones had presented the idea of transitioning from a rollator to a wheelchair out of concerns for my safety. But I believe it’s a decision that should be made by the patient. Recently, I came to terms with the…

Members of the Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) community are waking up each morning with extra grateful and hopeful hearts, thanks to the recent news of a successful clinical trial sponsored by Reata Pharmaceuticals. Ron Bartek, president of the Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA), shared the groundbreaking results of…

I recently rediscovered my passion for baking. My hopes and dreams should not be put on hold because of Friedreich’s ataxia (FA). I should not be discouraged from doing what I love. I take satisfaction in knowing I can enjoy an experience like everyone else, even if I have to do…

My passion for the hospitality and tourism industry has shaped my bucket list. I love to travel and explore new cities. During high school, I traveled to Europe three times with my school musical groups. It was an honor to visit Italy, England, and Ireland. Since being diagnosed with Friedreich’s…

In a previous column, I wrote about rideATAXIA Philadelphia and the 12th Annual Friedreich’s Ataxia Symposium, hosted by the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. People with Friedrich’s ataxia (FA), members of their families, and caregivers can connect with one another and learn about potential treatments at these types…

October is my favorite month. I love the feeling of new beginnings that comes with the crisp fall air. And I’m excited about two major Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) events that take place this month: rideATAXIA Philadelphia and the annual Friedreich’s Ataxia Symposium hosted by the Children’s Hospital of…

I often revisit a memory from eight years ago when my family and I were in a patient room at Johns Hopkins Hospital. I had undergone multiple tests, and as we waited anxiously for the results, the neurologist stepped into the room. He confirmed my diagnosis of Friedreich’s ataxia (FA),…