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…
Fighting FA — Frankie Perazzola
Frankie lives with Friedreich’s ataxia in the city of Los Angeles, California. She writes about her life experiences as an independent 28-year-old woman dealing with rare neuromuscular disease. Frankie focuses on utilizing physical fitness and writing for Bionews as her main coping mechanisms for FA. Through her column, “Fighting FA,” she helps others with internal growth and self-acceptance.
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I’ve Found Protein Powder Helpful in Managing My Daily Diet
Protein is necessary for the human body to stay healthy and function properly, regardless of whether you work out or not. According to the American Council on Exercise, “Protein is the principal component…
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Questions for a Future Personal Trainer With a Neuromuscular Disease
In my previous column, I announced I was becoming a certified personal trainer. I understand there may be curiosity around my decision. I also want to clarify things for future clients and for those who are curious about…
I’m Kicking My Health Education Into Hyperdrive
One of the biggest lessons I have learned this year is to sit back and genuinely listen. I was usually the type to insert myself in situations that didn’t apply to me or just wait for the…
Raise Awareness by Joining the ‘Lend Us Some Muscle’ Campaign
May is an exciting time for the FA community. It’s Friedreich’s Ataxia Awareness Month, a time for all of us who are affected to let our voices be heard! Additionally, May 16 is Friedreich’s…
Healthy Distractions and Keeping Busy
During this pandemic, one of my most important goals is to keep busy and throw in any available distractions. I need to keep my mind from dwelling in negativity. So many things can shove me into a…
What We Can Take Away from the Coronavirus Pandemic (So Far)
In times like these, I wish I had superpowers or a magic wand to make everything better. The fear and panic caused by the coronavirus pandemic are taking a toll on me. I’ll admit,…
My Diagnosis Changed Many of My Friendships
Thanks to Friedreich’s ataxia (FA), I have experienced the stress and turmoil of trying to hang on to strained friendships. After my diagnosis, friendships and romantic relationships were put to the test. It took me a…
Dealing with Mental Health Issues While Living with a Chronic Illness
Mental health is a significant yet overlooked aspect of dealing with a chronic illness. While it may be taken into consideration, it’s not often treated with sufficient seriousness. Continual learning and adapting to…
Periods of Isolation Allow Me to Thrive
I have been in many social situations where I have blown it. Almost every encounter, actually. I plan to relay a certain message, and my words come out differently than I’d intended. It’s ironic that I majored…
Rare Disease Day Is Our Chance to Be Heard
I can’t believe it’s February 2020! This is an important month for the rare disease community as we unite and acknowledge one another’s illnesses. Rare Disease Day falls on the last day of February — a rare month…
What Kobe Bryant Meant to Me
The world is still in shock over the loss of NBA legend Kobe Bryant. A heaviness lingers over Los Angeles, along with an overwhelming sense of, “What do we do now?” I can’t believe I am writing this…
Leg Cramps, Not Monsters, Kept Me Up at Night
We’ve all heard about the monsters under the bed that keep us up at night. Well, the monsters weren’t to blame. I was having awful leg cramps. I would wake up from a deep sleep…
