Halsey is a young woman living with SMA Type I. She received this diagnosis at the age of 15 months after her parents sought multiple doctors’ opinions and genetic testing — a process that has since been made much easier with today’s technology and understanding of the disease. Halsey is an avid reader and enjoys art and crock pot cooking. She also enjoys serving as a volunteer for a disability center in her home state of Indiana. She is now pursuing her writing dream with the hope of offering glimpses into everyday life with SMA and challenging readers to look for the positive in every situation.In recent years, Disney has started a new trend of turning its classic animated movies into live-action remakes. In 2019, it released a reimagined “Aladdin.” Much of the story stays true to the original film from 1992, and any differences that do occur only serve to make the movie stand…
Thanksgiving is almost upon us. Meals are being planned, and turkeys are being purchased. The delicious smells and flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon will be consumed in many homes. And, my favorite part, thankfulness abounds: Family, good health, the food on the table, and financial stability are commonly counted among…
I’ve been told many times by many people that I should be a counselor. It’s not unusual for my friends, family members, and co-workers to turn to me for wise advice, calm reassurances, or simply a listening ear. I don’t always know the right advice to give, but I try…
Children typically grow up with many opportunities to participate in a variety of activities. After exploring options, they choose the ones they enjoy most. They might choose sports, or they could opt to participate in art, music, or video gaming. If passionate, they might stretch these interests into adulthood. It’s…
What was the last spontaneous thing you did? Maybe you suddenly decided to treat yourself to ice cream, bought those shoes that have been calling your name, or went for a drive on a nice day simply because you felt like it. I enjoy a bit of spontaneity from time…
For my birthday last year, I wrote about how each year is a blessing. I still find that to be true. Each birthday is a cause for celebration, as none of them are guaranteed. When I was diagnosed with SMA as a baby, it came with…
I have never been a morning person. My family, friends, co-workers, and pretty much anyone that has ever met me can tell you this is true. But on rare occasions, I’ll wake up quickly without wishing for just a few more moments of sleep. Last week was one such occasion.
It’s no secret that I love fashion. One glance into my generously filled closet confirms this. But as is the case with many things, SMA requires that I take a creative approach to style. Today, I thought I’d share some ways in which I navigate the challenges I have when…
August has always been one of my favorite months. Not only is it an ideal time for enjoying lots of fresh air, but it also happens to be SMA Awareness Month. The entirety of August is dedicated to informing the world about this rare disease…
I’ve collected a variety of scars throughout my life. Many people with SMA have comparable ones from similar surgeries. Even if you don’t have SMA, I’m guessing you also have at least one or two scars of your own. Each of my scars tells its own story of a difficult…
