Ohio native Elizabeth Hamilton felt her world flip when her younger daughter’s health unexpectedly declined. It took six hospitals in five different cities and three states to obtain the diagnosis of Friedreich’s ataxia in 2020. A licensed social worker, Elizabeth believes that relationships are a healing force, and most problems can be solved if you have the right tools and the right people. Life takes unexpected turns, so we must take a moment to reexamine where we are and recalibrate.
I loved pop-up books as a child. The pieces that moved — delicate structures jumping off the page — captivated me, as did finding all of the flaps with hidden pictures. So it was…
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The magic of the season belongs to children — their laughter, joy, and beaming smiles. Though the pediatric population isn’t always seen at events for Friedreich’s ataxia (FA), their value and presence…
A nearby candle slowly cloaked the room in the scent of a Christmas tree while my 11-year-old daughter, Amelia, and I sloshed through her homework. My phone lit up with a new memory notification,…
As my grandpa always said, “You need the right tool for each job.” Despite this, I always turn to the same tools out of habit when working around the house. My vise grip…
When our daughter Amelia first started showing symptoms of Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) and we headed off on our diagnostic odyssey, something else important happened: The laughter was sucked out of…
Here come the holidays! This magical season that brings people together amid specific traditions, unrealistic expectations, and uncomfortable conversations has been the source of so many Hollywood hits. Then enters Friedreich’s ataxia (FA),…
After 15 minutes on hold, I hesitantly opted for a callback when an operator was free. Though I am sure this feature was created with the best intentions, it is a one-time pass. Meaning…
I love systems. From a professional standpoint, they fascinate me. I spent 20 years working as a social worker within a large system where I “grew up” professionally. Even when that system was frustrating,…
I have a confession: I’ve made some pretty big mistakes in my life. They were never intentional, but they were still harmful. They involved silver linings, overly positive thinking, and a perpetual need to…
When my children were young, one of my favorite moments was story time before bed. Nothing felt better than having a child under each arm with a good book in the middle. I know…
I love my “FAmily.” The network of incredible individuals that Friedreich’s ataxia (FA) has brought into my life since my daughter’s diagnosis has been such a blessing. I often say, “I hate this…
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