My name is Austin, and I have been fighting Friedreich’s Ataxia for most of my life.
When I was just 15 years old, I was diagnosed with Friedreich’s Ataxia (FA), a rare, progressive genetic disease that has no cure. At an age when most teenagers were thinking about driving, sports, college, and the future, I was forced to face a diagnosis that would slowly take away my independence.
Year after year, FA has continued to progress. Today, I am wheelchair-bound and homebound. Things that many people never have to think twice about—walking across a room, leaving the house, or completing everyday tasks—have become daily challenges.
Living with Friedreich’s Ataxia is more than losing mobility. It’s grieving the life you imagined while finding the strength to embrace the life you have. It’s learning to celebrate small victories, even as the disease continues to take more from you. Every day requires patience, determination, and hope.
The financial burden of living with a progressive illness is overwhelming. Medical care, medications, mobility equipment, home modifications, transportation, and other daily necessities continue to grow. These are not luxuries—they are essential to helping me live with dignity, comfort, and as much independence as possible.
Asking for help has never been easy. Like many people, I’ve always wanted to take care of myself. But Friedreich’s Ataxia has taught me that sometimes strength means allowing others to walk beside you when you can no longer walk on your own.
If you’re able to donate, know that your generosity will go directly toward helping me manage the challenges of this disease and improve my quality of life. If you’re unable to give financially, sharing my story with others is a gift I deeply appreciate.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Your kindness, support, and prayers remind me that even in the hardest moments, I am not alone. Every donation, every share, and every encouraging word gives me hope and helps me keep moving forward—one day at a time. Every donation is tax deductible and can only be disbursed to me for medically related needs.
