Member Stories

My name is Linda Snider, MD, and I am 45 years old. I started experiencing symptoms in my late 30s — walking off balance, slurring my words, and tripping a lot. I was diagnosed with SCA type 1. I became a doctor because my father had Ataxia and I became Read More…

I’m Jonathan Zilles. I was diagnosed with Friedreich’s Ataxia when I was 11 years old. Life as a kid with Friedreich’s was pretty normal, but I fell down a lot. My symptoms started early and included hand-eye coordination issues. Despite FA, I was fortunate enough to graduate both high school Read More…

My name is Ed Schwartz. I’m co – chairman of “The Western Pennsylvania Ataxia Support Group of the National Ataxia Foundation (NAF). Ataxia is the biggest challenge I have ever had to face in my life. About twenty three years ago I began to fall down in the dark. Then Read More…

I wanted to help the NAF and spread awareness about Ataxia. One way I could help support the NAF and also bring about awareness was by having fundraisers. I have two fundraisers per year.  Introducing the NAF to my friends and acquaintances or by telling them to go directly to Read More…