Acknowledging My Disability Is Empowering
I was diagnosed with Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) in 2013. At that point, I was still pretty “normal.” I could still do almost everything except walk in high heels or perform well in sports. I…
My Darling Disability
— Kendall Harvey
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.
Featured Post
Identifying and addressing your own needs is vital in life with FA
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…
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I’m Thankful for So Much, Even With Friedreich’s Ataxia
2020 has been a wild year. Thanks to the pandemic, growing civil unrest, and a tumultuous and pivotal presidential election, we are all leading a life we didn’t anticipate or plan for. Add…
Friedreich’s Ataxia Has Taught Me a Lot
Before I was diagnosed in 2013, I had never even heard of Friedreich’s ataxia. I learned a lot during the diagnostic process as we assessed the viability of possible diagnoses to rule out.
The Importance of Being Your Own Advocate
When it comes to your health and future, you are your own best advocate. Only you know what you are feeling, so only you know what is or isn’t “normal” for you. When I…
Progressing Through Friedreich’s Ataxia With a Healthy Perspective
Special occasions make me introspective, as I have written before. On days when my Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) symptom progression is clearly noticeable, I take time to observe how my FA is affecting my…
I Feel Both Pride and Envy While Parenting With Friedreich’s Ataxia
I am beyond blessed to be “Mom” to my 6-year-old son, Brooks, and my 3-year-old daughter, Collins. They are wonderful, healthy, happy, energetic, smart, and funny. I feel a mix of emotions…
Knowing When to Share Information About Friedreich’s Ataxia
One of the most difficult parts of using a mobility aid is unavoidably revealing that I am “not normal.” Since becoming dependent on my walker, I feel like I’m constantly broadcasting my most…
After Quarantine, I Am ‘the Disabled Mom’ Again
Given all of the uncertainty and unpredictability in the world, it is fairly safe to say that nearly everyone has had moments of frustration, fear, and disappointment. Life in Texas is getting back to…
Let’s ‘Walk and Roll’ With Our Mobility Devices
As my Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) symptoms progress, I become increasingly dependent on assistance to walk and to generally function productively. When my symptoms first started, I was able to get by holding onto…
