Chris MeyerMy name is Chris Meyer and was diagnosed with Friedreich's Ataxia (FA) when I was 17 years old. I started showing symptoms when I was fifteen. Currently, I'm 37 years old living in Chino Hills, California and have been confined to a wheelchair since the age of 22.

 

Living with Friedreich's Ataxia for over 20 years and being wheelchair bound with multiple symptoms including hearing and speech difficulties, diabetes, high blood pressure, poor coordination and dexterity affects all aspects of my life. My symptoms are always progressing just as life does, but I keep moving forward. Although Friedreich's Ataxia slows me down, I don't let it stop me. The simplest task has become increasingly difficult but I'll always find a way. I still have many hobbies and interests that I continuously adapt to make them more accessible to meet my mobility impairments. Being a FARA (Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance) Ambassador, I hope to help others battling FA and to empower the community.