I was a high school baseball coach for 25 seasons and had a successful 20 years in as the Public Address announcer for all the programs football and basketball games – both boys and girls. About five years ago, I sold my lucrative Financial Planning practice of 33 years and was looking forward to a fun filled retirement when I began to notice something was wrong. My balance was askew and I had a few cognitive issues plus my speech was impacted as well. After several exams, I was told I had MSA-C and my brain was actually shrinking. I left coaching and gave up announcing (easier said than done – I miss it all very much) cold turkey for life of reading and watching television. I’m bored. My friends say not but walk tentatively and I can hear it my speech. At times, I feel helpless.
When Were You Diagnosed? Which Type (If Known)?
Two months ago- MSA-C.
How Has Ataxia Impacted Your Life?
I can barely walk anymore and my wife does all the chores.
What is One Thing You’d Like the People to Know About Ataxia?
My wife is as trapped as I am.
Share Your Advice – How Can Others Support Someone with Ataxia?
Exercise-go for walks daily and three times a week I meet up with a support group at an MMA boxing site.
What is Your Ataxia Story?
As an organization dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by Ataxia, we believe that each story has the power to inspire, connect, and empower others. We invite you to share your personal Ataxia journey with us.
Are you here to read the personal stories, but haven’t yet joined as a member? We hope you find comfort in reading about the experiences of others on their Ataxia journey. We invite you to join as a member to receive a new member story each month. It’s free, and you’ll be kept up-to-date on the latest developments in the Ataxia community.
Recent Member Stories
Sandi G
I am pleased to share some exciting news with you. I am a 67-year-old woman with a diagnosis of SCA8, and for the first time Read More…
Thomas Hudson
I’ve had balance and coordination issues my whole life – but I really started noticing it 10 years ago. I think the stress of myself Read More…
Tyler
My grandmother died prematurely from ataxia when I was just a baby, 26 years ago. Now today, my aunt has severe SCA and my mother Read More…
Tracy B
My paternal grandfather had a wide gait and difficulty walking and talking. We were told it was like “hardening of the arteries in the brain.” Read More…
Pinalben “Pinky” Patel
A Wheelchair is Not The Endgame By Pinalben “Pinky” Patel I’m sorry, but I don’t consider wheelchair users disabled. I am a very happy person Read More…
Shaun Wesley Best
My Ataxia journey began in 1978, following a three-month coma I experienced the year before, at age 12. Since then, I’ve faced significant balance challenges Read More…
