My mental health plays a big role in how well I manage procedures
Though I’ve had 20-something Spinraza (nusinersen) injections, my latest procedure proved most eye-opening for me. For almost seven years,…
Articles by Alyssa Silva
After years of health struggles, I am growing stronger
Although I often don’t like to admit it, I sometimes feel as though my identity has switched from person to…
The fragility of my independence with a broken wheelchair
Through my experience with SMA, I’ve come to understand the fragility of life. I’ve also come to understand the…
Rare tornadoes prompt us to rethink our storm preparation
I couldn’t believe what I was seeing on the news. A tornado had touched down in my home state, Rhode…
Dealing with grief over lost abilities is a perpetual part of SMA
In the SMA community, we expect to grieve the loss of our abilities, given the nature of this disease.
Finding energy for the things that matter in life with chronic fatigue
You wouldn’t know this just by looking at me or the pictures I post on Instagram, but I’m hiding…
Finding my strength in situations that feel beyond my control
Living with SMA, I too often don’t feel in control of my body. It’s an unsettling feeling to…
How awareness has transformed the SMA landscape
When I was a little girl, there was a period when I frequented the orthopedic surgeon’s office. Back and forth…
Why beach days are so complex for me as a wheelchair user
My love for the beach has always been passionate yet complicated. Sure, it’s my happy place. The sound of…
Living with SMA means embracing the art of adaptation
When I travel, even if it’s just to a friend’s house, I carry with me a lot of stuff. Among…