Newly Diagnosed: You Are Not Alone on Your Journey
Whether you are a patient or a caregiver, it’s important to remember that you are not alone on this journey with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and that others have been in your shoes. Here’s a collection of our columnists’ words that they would like to share to help guide, inspire, and encourage you.
Happiness Never Looks Like You Think It Will
Although her life doesn’t resemble a Disney movie with the happily-ever-after ending, writes Briana Albers, the happiness she’s found is sweeter because it’s hers, and she’s worked hard for it. Nothing is as it was supposed to be. But there is beauty in that, she says.
Dear Parents: Let Your Kid with SMA Dream Big
No matter how ridiculous his dreams were as a kid, columnist Kevin Schaefer’s parents encouraged him to pursue what he was passionate about. Allow your kids to dream big, he tells other parents of children with SMA. You might be surprised what they can accomplish.
Days That End in ‘Why’: A Letter to My Parents
Throughout her life and the ups and downs of being an SMA patient, columnist Katie Napiwocki’s parents were there to love her, support her, and fight for her. In a letter to them, she expresses all the ways they helped her become the person she is today.
Reflecting on My Diagnosis Day, 30 Years Later
On the 30th anniversary of her SMA diagnosis, columnist Alyssa Silva reflects on how much has changed since that difficult day. There is both grief and happiness in the memories, but mostly she feels the purest joy and gratitude for the life she’s been given.
People With Disabilities Need the Freedom to Explore Their Interests
People with disabilities should have the freedom to pursue opportunities and interests beyond those that are disability-related, columnist Halsey Blocher writes. She has found some of her greatest passions when she has been given the opportunity to explore them.
Ella Has Made Big Gains Since Diagnosis Day
Columnist Michael Casten marvels at the progress his daughter has made since she was diagnosed with SMA type 2. She is stronger, more confident, and has grown into a blossoming child full of life and laughter.