My Darling Disability - a Column by Kendall Harvey

It’s one thing to go through a hardship yourself, but it’s another thing entirely to watch a hardship happen to a loved one. As a parent myself, I know how parents feel any pain and sadness that their children endure. In fact, a child’s pain can almost seem greater for…

During actor André De Shields’ Tony Awards acceptance speech in 2019, he shared his three rules for his longevity: “One, surround yourself with people whose eyes light up when they see you coming. Two, slowly is the fastest way to get to where you want to be. And three,…

There is no single way to handle challenges in life. What works for me might not work for you. And what worked for you last time might not work for you this time. I think the only consistency we can count on when confronted with challenges…

Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) is not easy to navigate. Like any lifelong journey, it has difficult seasons, roadblocks, and the occasional smooth path when you get to set your cruise control. It has unexpected detours, expenses, learning opportunities, and challenges, resulting in a collection of memories and experiences. Unfortunately, my…

Most of us have heard about the five love languages described by author Gary Chapman. Love languages are the ways that we show and receive love, and the concept is commonly used in relationship or premarital counseling. For example, I show love through acts of service, and I receive…

Since I began my Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) journey in 2013, expectations have become a huge part of my life. Before my diagnosis, I had never even heard of FA, let alone expected to engage in a lifelong battle against it. I felt anchorless in a raging sea of uncertainty.

I had a wonderful childhood, yet I knew how hard my parents worked to make that happen. So, when I became a grown-up, I felt like I had fairly realistic expectations. I planned on working hard and living a fulfilling life, raising a family, and building a fun village…

I often think about the pity that is expressed to people with disabilities — people like me. I am an obviously disabled young woman, and my Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) is on full display, making me a regular recipient of unsolicited pity. Some people stop and stare, some whisper to…

I saw a meme a couple of months ago that said, “I can either do a morning activity or an evening activity — I am too tired for both.” I shared it with my friends, and we giggled because it was so true for all of us weary, overburdened mothers.

There is a common saying at New Year’s as people make their resolutions: “New year, new me!” The beginning of a calendar year carries an air of possibility. It is an exciting chance to reflect on the previous year and to plan to make the new year even better. It…