My Darling Disability - a Column by Kendall Harvey

Yes, Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) is hard. Yes, its widespread symptoms are always on my mind. When I am at social events, I am overwhelmingly aware of my disability and the lifestyle adaptations it demands. Despite all of that, it is not the only thing I am capable of discussing,…

As my Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) symptoms have progressed, my abilities have deteriorated, forcing me to adapt. My progression has been fairly steady and predictable, all things considered. Except for temporary circumstances like injury or illness, I usually know what the next morning will bring, physically. When it became…

My son, Brooks, turns 11 this week. Birthdays tend to make me nostalgic, especially my children’s. As the day approaches, I reflect on the passing of time and the coming and going of phases. One of the most memorable phases of my parenting journey coincided with one of Brooks’…

Here in the United States, fall is back-to-school season — something I’m very aware of as the mom of two elementary-age children. This year, the logistics of this season have looked different for my family and me, thanks to our community. Because my balance has been deteriorating due to…

Last in a series. Read part one.  After a traumatic whirlwind of a day, a sleepless night, and surgery to repair my broken hip, I woke up in the postoperative room. That’s always disorienting because you have no clue how much time has passed, how the surgery went, what…

First in a series. On Sept. 6, 2025, my worst fear happened. It felt inevitable. I am 100% dependent on mobility aids due to poor balance and coordination with Friedreich’s ataxia (FA). Around the house, I use a rollator walker, but when I’m out and about, I…

When I was 25 years old, on Aug. 19, 2013, my life forever changed. Together with my parents and husband, I got the answer we’d long sought about why my balance was progressively, noticeably, and inexplicably getting worse, despite being young, active, and otherwise healthy. A neurologist provided a…

Mid-August is generally recognized as back-to-school time for those with school-age children or who work in education. Our television programs are flooded with commercials for the latest and greatest in children’s fashion trends and the new must-have school supplies; our inboxes are full of promotions and sales; and there’s a…

Sometimes life with Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) can feel smooth, all things considered. Now and then, the accommodations my disabilities demand or the adaptations my symptom progression requires don’t seem that intrusive. I feel like I am, for the most part, able to take part in my life. My participation…

I’m 100% dependent on mobility aids due to my current stage of Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) progression. Given that, there’s never been a shortage of reactions by others to my various walkers and wheelchairs. In my personal experience, most toddler boys are fascinated by anything with wheels, so I’ve…