Voices of Friedreich's Ataxia (FA)

In the 1990s, the identification of mutations in the frataxin gene (from which frataxin protein is produced) as the underlying

Enlargement of the heart also can lead to arrhythmia — a heartbeat that’s too fast or slow and doesn’t adjust

Heart failure is a leading cause of death in F A. Cardiac abnormalities occur in about 75 percent of people

About 10 percent of people with FA have diabetes, and another 20 percent have a form of “pre-diabetes” called glucose

Certain skeletal abnormalities are common in FA. Many people experience inversion (inward turning) of the feet, and a little over

Sensory impairment in FA includes Loss of tactile (touch) sensation, which is a cardinal symptom of FA but is often

Usually, ataxia first affects the legs and torso, causing frequent tripping, poor performance in sports, or just an unsteady walk.

I know that I’m rare, and I’m uniquely qualified to handle this life. I have my “four F’s”:Feelings: I know

Since I don’t think life with FA can be captured in one word, I don’t think the opposite can be,

When you live under the banner of a degenerative disease such as Friedreich’s ataxia (FA), you become well acquainted with