SMA Stories: Joe Akmakjian ‘Just Watch Me’

by Wendy Henderson | October 5, 2016

In this MDA video meet Joe Akmakjian, a 24-year-old with SMA who lives his life to the fullest and is about to embark on his biggest test of independence yet. (Hint to his family: He’s moving out.)

Diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) at just 15 months old, Akmakjian has an amazingly positive outlook on life and doesn’t let his disability get in the way of anything he wants to do, including skydiving.

“I’m definitely disabled, its part of my identity. But it’s not the first thing I think of, and it’s not the biggest component of my life.” — Joe Akmakjian

Find out more about Eric and his ‘amazing’ life with SMA. Click here.

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About the Author

Wendy Henderson Wendy is a proven blogger and social media manager who has helped to build online communities for businesses and organizations. She currently heads the website’s social outreach online through social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.