Nicole KramerName: Nicole Kramer

Age: 24

Where do you call home? Chicagoland suburbs

Education: Bachelor's Degree in Sociology, Certificate in Criminology, and Associate's of Science

What is your relationship status? Who do you live with? Not in a relationship and not currently looking. I live with my mom right now.

What's a typical day for you? I work right now. Some days I start at 5:30 am or as late as 9 am. Each day is different. When it is nicer weather I take my service dog for a 2 or 3-mile walk as often as possible.

How long have you known you are living with FA? I was diagnosed at 15 years old but now that I know, I have probably shown it since I was about 10 years old.

Are there any others with FA in your family? Nope

Nicole Kramer 3Describe your transition from walking to walker/wheelchair: This was extremely hard for me because I have always been athletic, and being restricted almost shattered me. I just remained positive and searched for an adapted way to do what I loved.

What do you like to do to stay active and what type of exercises work for you to stay strong? Many things, like skydiving and rock climbing.

Do you have any hobbies or special interests? Ummm...sleep

What is a good trick to make daily life easier? Be positive and patient. Negative thoughts make everything harder.

When FA gets you down, what do you think/do to feel better? My dog's goofy smile and my cats *I don't care* attitude generally fix all bad moods.

What is one way living with FA has POSITIVELY affected your life? I've met a lot of inspirational people, that our paths would have never crossed if it wasn't for FA.

Nicole Kramer 2What is a favorite motivational quote of yours? Life isn't full of obstacles, it's challenging you to adapt.

What is a piece of advice that someone with FA has given you that encourages and inspires you? Life is a rollercoaster and we're on the ride of our life.

What is the best advice YOU could give to a person who has been newly diagnosed with FA? Wikipedia and the internet freak you out. FAers define what the doctors say about us.

What is the first thing you want to do when a cure/treatment to FA is found? Go skydiving like every other day and never have to ask for help again.

Tell us a little more about you... FA doesn't define me. I am so much more than a diagnosis; my personality is to help, not be helped which is my biggest struggle.

AndreaKiess mtc sig 16