I am 41 years old and currently live in Ashland, VA. I have SCA2. My Mom, Aunt, Grandfather and cousin all have or have had it as well.
I started to feel off earlier this year and knew what to get tested for because of my Mom. I can still trail run, ride a bike and work. But I have to admit they are getting more challenging.
I have found a lot of hope in joining the Ataxia community and look forward to the weekly webinars and meetings. I have also found that staying active and PT helps me both physically and mentally.
The best thing about this new diagnosis for me is the ability to focus on the things that really matter like family and friends.
I will continue to try and help with any studies I can and fundraising.
I still get down about my new situation but I just have to remember to think around the problem and find comfort in all the good that I have in my life.
Read Other Member Stories

Dušan Stojanovich
“His Light Endures”: Honoring Dušan Through Art and Advocacy By Dr. Nanette Presswell My partner Dušan was an extraordinary person—deeply creative, endlessly curious, and full of imagination. He had a Read More…

Marius
My Ataxia Journey: Sailing Uncharted Waters My name is Marius, and I live in Romania. I’m 64 years old, and I’ve always been an active, independent person who enjoyed thinking Read More…

Kamal Randhawa
I have a history of Ataxia. On my father’s side, all aunts and uncles are affected, their offspring too. We all have Ataxia. I was just diagnosed in 2025. I Read More…

Bev Schmutz
Hi! I was diagnosed in 2010. I worked for a well known insurance carrier. I had breast cancer in 2008 and received Chemo therapy, radiation and Herceptin. The docs are Read More…

Purnima
Hello everyone, I used to live away from my home in Pokhara with my 3-year-old son for my job. I was a very confident girl — I loved dancing, not Read More…

Sandra B
I’m Sandra. I’m 50 years old and based in Hamburg, Germany. There are some things I found out and experienced, and for I found them help- and hopeful I want Read More…