Columns

We’re Learning to Adjust to Our New Normal

Our family has the good fortune to spend summers at a beautiful lake in central Alabama. For the past nine years, my in-laws have had a summer home and they’ve graciously invited the entire family to gather there each weekend. Since the lake is less than an hour from home,…

Visiting a Historic Farmhouse for a Good Cause

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, and culture, with gourmet dining, breweries and wineries, and award-winning accommodations. When I describe the area to people, I classify it…

My Cousin Served as My First Wheelchair

“Ready?” my cousin asked. “I guess,” I said halfheartedly, ashamed, and eager for this to be over. My cousin easily lifted me onto his back. I remember thinking how strange it was to be carried around by another high school senior, but…

Rain Won’t Stop Us from Curing FA!

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 wrote the column, “How to Plan a Grassroots FA Event,” which includes our planning checklist. My family and I…

Wishing Away Friedreich’s Ataxia

Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) is a heavy diagnosis. It is a relentlessly cruel progressive disease without a treatment or cure. It’s a lot to process and handle, challenging my worldview and self-worth daily, hourly, and by the minute. I don’t want to have FA. I want to be “normal.”…