I got diagnosed at 40 after always walking awkward and 2 years of being unsteady. Now I’m going to start physical therapy and apply for SSDI. It’s sad for me, I have 2 little ones but I know God will see me through.
When Were You Diagnosed? Which Type (If Known)?
Autosomal Recessive Spastic Ataxia
How Has Ataxia Impacted Your Life?
I’m slowly moving and fell a lot before the cane.
What is One Thing You’d Like the People to Know About Ataxia?
We try our best.
Share Your Advice – How Can Others Support Someone with Ataxia?
Let them cry and tell them they are doing great. Encourage them to keep going.
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

Marybeth Barker
Shortly after returning from a once in a lifetime vacation to Turkey in 2010, at age 58, I began to experience odd neurological symptoms and Read More…

Neyveth Duarte
My name is Neyveth Duarte and my dad was officially diagnosed with Ataxia earlier this year. My dad is my hero and he is going Read More…

Adam Nelson
I grew up in a small & rural town of about 3,500 people in central Minnesota. I was raised in a blue-collar middle class home, Read More…

Ataxia Connection Travel Grants Bring Over 50 Attendees to the 2025 Annual Ataxia Conference
Submitted by Theresa Nelson, Executive Director at Ataxia Connection It is an exciting opportunity for our organization, Ataxia Connection, to travel and attend the Annual Read More…

Finding Connection at the 2025 Annual Ataxia Conference
Submitted by Mark Holdenried Attending the 2025 Annual Ataxia Conference (AAC) in Las Vegas was a meaningful and energizing experience. From the travel experience to Read More…

Lim Siah Gim
My challenge and journey with Ataxia I was born youngest in a family of 11. From teen I witnessed my father (who was about 50 Read More…