Halsey Blocher,  —

Halsey Blocher is a young woman who was diagnosed with SMA Type 1 in 1999 after a blood test revealed a deletion of the survival motor neuron gene. She now lives with her loving family in Fort Wayne, IN and spends her free time reading, cooking, creating, and enjoying life’s blessings. Halsey is passionate about her work as the columns manager at BioNews Inc. as well as volunteering with various local organizations. Writing is her lifelong dream, so she uses this gift to advocate and offer glimpses into everyday life with SMA in the hope that it will inspire readers to seek the positive in every situation

Articles by Halsey Blocher

Do children hold the key to improved accessibility?

Growing up, I loved the library’s summer reading program. I’ve always been a bookworm, so logging hours of reading and being rewarded for my hobby was a highly satisfying endeavor. My favorite prizes were, of course, new books. Last year, I was thrilled to learn that this program from my…

Sharing my wealth for my golden birthday and beyond

I just turned 26 on Sept. 26, which makes it my golden birthday. Never heard of a golden birthday? You’re not alone. It’s believed they were invented by American author and teacher Joan Bramsch in the 1950s. She celebrated each of her five children’s golden birthdays, and the idea…

Finding a reminder of unconditional love in our cat

Our cat, Toby, waltzed into our family over a decade ago for what was intended as a temporary arrangement. She won our affection quickly, and we decided to welcome her into our home indefinitely. Not that she needed an invitation to stay. Toby said she owned the place, and who…

Lighting up the night to honor our SMA community

On the second Saturday of every August, the setting sun fades and is replaced by the ethereal glow of candlelight. Around the world, the SMA community comes together for a twilight vigil to remember our loved ones who have departed and to honor those living with SMA. Candle-bearing crowds…