Hello my name is Sly. I’m 33 years old. Started to show symptoms at age 21, diagnosed at age 25. Fun fact: before I got diagnosed is that I hiked half Dome in Yosemite. It took me and my family about fifteen hours.
When I moved in an apartment with my ex-wife, she started to notice it would take a long time to bring my cup of coffee from the kitchen to the living room. A simple 1 minute task turned into a 30 minute task. I was a 4 year basketball player and 2 years baseball player in high school. I was always called clumsy Sly in college. Then I got diagnosed later that year with SCA2.
When Were You Diagnosed? Which Type (If Known)?
Diagnosed at age 25 I have SCA2
How Has Ataxia Impacted Your Life?
In high school I had a normal childhood. Played basketball all four years and baseball for two years. Went to college and I was always known as Clumsy Sly. I thought that was normal so I didn’t think anything about it. Fast forward to now. I woke up one morning and my balance issues progressed recently. It’s definitely hard day in and day out. I live life day by day. I currently still work as a cashier at a grocery store. I’m trying to be active until I can’t anymore.
What is One Thing You’d Like the People to Know About Ataxia?
One thing I would want people to know about ataxia is that I want everyone to be patient with me. I may slur my words but I’m like any other human being. I have feelings too.
Share Your Advice – How Can Others Support Someone with Ataxia?
Just be patient with me. Be supportive to my condition.
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.
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