Kendall Harvey is a wife and mother of two in Austin, Texas. She has been navigating life with Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) since her diagnosis in 2013 at the age of 25. She worked in marketing before “retiring” to be a stay-at-home-mom. She is an optimistic warrior fighting for a better future free of FA. Until that day comes, she aspires to inspire others with her column by detailing personal life lessons about grit and grace. Kendall shares a message of hope despite disability.Being able to recognize your needs is a big sign of maturity. As a parent, I’ve had a front-row seat as my two young children, who have very different personalities, learn to recognize when…
Read more
Despite using a walker 24/7, taking my clinical trial study treatment daily, getting ample rest, going to physical therapy weekly, working out daily, maintaining a balanced diet, and making safety modifications around my house,…
One of the most emotional and heartbreaking obstacles to overcome with a progressively degenerative disease like Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) is the use of mobility aids. I know the struggles firsthand because I’ve been entirely…
Historically, Aug. 19 is a hard day for me. That’s the day in 2013 when I was blindsided by a Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) diagnosis. My emotional journey of advocating for myself to find answers…
Last week, my family and I went to the beach with our neighbors for a fun end-of-summer getaway. We stayed in a precious beachside rental that had a room full of bunk beds for…
One of the most frustrating effects of the progression of my Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) symptoms is how slow I’ve become lately. Physically, I do everything more slowly. Not only am I slower than I…
The word “hope” has been woven through many of my conversations lately, especially in the last week. I’m participating in a clinical trial, and I had my first in-person visit in nearly two…
As a Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) patient, my options for exercise are limited. I can’t go to kickboxing or step classes with my friends, and I can’t go for a run or a hike. While…
Dear 2013 Kendall, Your world was just rocked and turned upside down. I know you feel like your future is an impossibility now that Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) has clouded your blue skies. I am…
While Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) is a physical disease that happens to my body, I have noticed that my physical symptoms affect my mental outlook on life. I have always been the type of person…
Get regular updates to your inbox.
