Columns

Small Lessons Can Be Learned by Addressing Big Issues

The year 2020 will mark stories of history for generations to come. This year continues to call attention to areas of opportunity, shortcomings, and perhaps failures across many areas of life — from global economic concerns to neighborhood-specific best practices.  Of all we can and will…

What ‘Hamilton’ Taught Me About Waiting

I’m not patient. Not at all.  I think it’s funny that people with debilitating health conditions often are seen as being patient and tolerant. We seem to be superhuman, persistent, and serene in our daily activities, no matter how long they take or how much we…

First I Swim, Then I Drown, Now I Float

I remember getting to the pool early one summer morning before swimming lessons began. I wasn’t a swim teacher per se; I was more of a teacher’s assistant. The head instructor had me and the instructors my age do a lifeguard training exercise.

Maintaining Abilities With Friedreich’s Ataxia

With Friedreich’s ataxia (FA), I am used to the reality that my abilities are progressively deteriorating. I am losing coordination, dexterity, cellular energy, and strength every single day. I am all too aware of the ticking clock that has started the countdown on my ability to do just about…

Push to Get the Results You Want

I’m confident we can all agree: We have no idea what tomorrow may hold. Whether we are talking about the stock market, our individual health, or simply the weather, many things can change drastically from one hour to the next.  Speaking of weather, that…

I’ve Chosen to Be Intentionally Courageous

Friederich’s ataxia (FA) has taught me a lot about intentionality. As an FA patient, I must be intentional both physically and emotionally to function at the capacity I desire. I used to take my physical abilities for granted before my FA symptoms started. I practiced hard at swimming,…

Why I Choose to Use a Wheelchair

My alarm goes off at 6 a.m. I open my eyes to my service dog, Zeego, who still has his eyes closed. He is definitely not ready to get up yet, but I am. With a hand on my SuperPole for balance, I…

Will We Ever Accept FA?

I was recently interviewed about my diagnostic journey. I am used to answering a lot of the questions but one stuck with me. It was a very simple ask: “Without mentioning Friedreich’s ataxia (FA), what do you do?” The thing is, almost every aspect of my life…