When I was 13 years old I was diagnosed with Friedreich’s Ataxia. Back then I wasn’t showing many, if any, signs or issues commonly associated with FA. Then as the disease progressed I began to feel and show the common problems with this disease but I was still able to enjoy and involve myself in the activities that I enjoy.
Within the past two years the progression of my disease has limited my activities and has demanded more of my attention. Because I must devote more attention to this disease I’m having problems concentrating on the things I was trying to accomplish in life and most importantly my bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. Restoring automobiles, my most beloved hobby, was becoming very limited as my movement disabilities were becoming more of a problem. Even the simple act of lifting myself off the ground had become nearly impossible.
Then about 2 months ago I met a gentleman named Dr. Tom Clouse who teaches people with Ataxia the tools need to increase and keep the gift of mobility. After a condensed version of his course over a weekend I left with a steadier body and feeling very confident that these tools would be used to help me for a long time into my future. I am now a lot more stable, have more energy and am easily able to pick myself up off the floor whilst working on my favorite hobby.
Thanks, Tom!
Zach Zmithrovitch
Charlotte, NC
zgzmithr@uncc.edu