Maitreyi Viswanathan

The video above is from Maitreyi’s personal YouTube channel, in which she discusses her experiences living with Ataxia. Mature topics are discussed, viewer discretion is advised.

When Were You Diagnosed? Which Type (If Known)?

Toronto, ON, Canada – SCA Type 2

How Has Ataxia Impacted Your Life?

Negatively. This all started manifesting, well into me being an adult, and already having in mind how I was going to navigate the world physically and emotionally. Then at about age 35 I had to change pretty much everything to keep myself at some level of positive mental health. Happened pretty much at the same time that everything in the world started catching fire so my personal issues were tied very heavily into things being difficult in the world at large.

What is One Thing You’d Like the People to Know About Ataxia?

The emotionality and mental health issues are just as bad as the physical ones but nobody talks about them. That you have to grieve/make peace with your body not working the way you want it to while at the same time figuring out what your new reality is going to look like – incredibly complex mentally and physically too because you have to just “try stuff” and see what works.

Share Your Advice – How Can Others Support Someone with Ataxia?

Normalize talking about it. The more it can be acknowledged without judgement, the easier it is to navigate because it fees like not as big a deal.

How has NAF Helped You or Your Family?

It has introduced me to advances and research in the space and given me confidence to live a fuller life and not be such a hermit.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this story are those of the individual member and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Ataxia Foundation (NAF). Any medical information shared in this story is based on personal experience and has not been reviewed or endorsed by NAF or a medical professional. Always consult with your own physician or qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your care or treatment plan.

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