I’ve Chosen to Be Intentionally Courageous
Friederich’s ataxia (FA) has taught me a lot about intentionality. As an FA patient, I must be intentional both physically and emotionally to function at the capacity I desire. I used to take…
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
Accepting my reality with FA while striving for a better future
So much of living with a progressive, lifelong disease like Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) is mentally processing and accepting the physical changes it brings. But with the widespread degeneration of my body and the…
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Battling ‘Mobility Envy’ as My FA Symptoms Progress
Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) is a cruel, degenerative genetic disease that attacks the central nervous system and deteriorates muscle coordination, strength, energy, and dexterity. It steals motor skills, making FA patients progressively more disabled.
Seizing What I Can from Life
Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) is a progressively degenerative neurological disease. It targets almost every aspect of my body, especially coordination, balance, dexterity, and energy. My abilities are slowly diminishing, and my energy is constantly draining.
Growing Bigger Than Friedreich’s Ataxia
People respond to adversity in many different ways. You can rise to the challenge or crumble under its weight. You can push through or bail. Sometimes, you have to pick your battles and know…
Behind Closed Doors: Why I Share the Reality of FA
I am an open book about most areas of my life. I’ll answer just about any question I am asked, even questions about my Friedreich’s ataxia (FA). FA is a rare, progressive,…
How I’ve Adapted to Being Disabled in an Able-bodied World
Before I developed symptoms and then was diagnosed at 25 with Friedreich’s ataxia (FA), a progressive and degenerative disease, I was healthy, active, and able. Since my symptoms progressed, I no longer…
Fairy Tales, Dreams, and a Cure for FA
When you are the parent of kids ages 5 and 3, you read lots of fairy-tale books and watch countless Disney movies. You become part of the wonderful stories and see hardworking ladies…
Choosing Hope Over Fear with Friedreich’s Ataxia
Friedreich’s ataxia is a daunting, life-altering diagnosis. It changes every aspect of your life, especially as your disease progresses. It changes your ability to do the things that once came easily, and…
Instagram vs. Reality with Mobility Aids
Because of my Friedreich’s ataxia (FA), I use a walker as a mobility aid. The walker helps provide the stability that I can’t accomplish on my own, which helps prevent falls. My walker…
