By

Michael Mantz
Lisa Antonelli Cole’s journey to an ataxia diagnosis was marked by years of misdiagnosis and frustration.  After experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, lack of coordination, and imbalance for years, Lisa underwent a series of medical appointments, only to be dismissed with treatments for vertigo and chronic anxiety. It wasn’t until a cardiologist recommended she see...
Why do people always talk about eating more fruits and veggies? It’s not just about getting your vitamins or loading up on fiber—there’s a more significant reason that doesn’t get talked about enough. There’s this amazing system inside you called the buffer system that quietly works to keep everything in check. Believe it or not,...
One day, you’re 17 and you’re planning for someday. And then quietly, without you ever really noticing, someday is today. And then someday is yesterday. And this is your life. John Green Does anyone else feel like this year is passing by quicker than any previous year?  I had this exact discussion with my acupuncturist...
Aging is a part of life, but how we handle it makes all the difference. Staying healthy, happy, and mentally sharp as the years go by starts with how we care for ourselves. It’s not just about avoiding wrinkles or aches—it’s about feeling good and living fully. So, what’s the trick to staying sharp and...
This site is about building Ataxia Awareness and one of the many types is Gluten Ataxia. Please consult a doctor if you feel like you may have this condition. Gluten ataxia is a progressive condition, which means that symptoms may start off mild and almost unnoticed, and gradually progress to being debilitating. In recent years, there...
Darcy’s story is a powerful reminder that even with a rare condition like CACNA1A mutation-related ataxia, you can still live a full and meaningful life. She inspires everyone by showing us that resilience, adaptation, and raising awareness are key to overcoming challenges. Discovering the Diagnosis Darcy’s journey to a diagnosis was a long and bumpy...
Imagine a world where the simple act of walking, balancing, or coordinating your movements becomes a daily struggle.Learning to live with a progressive condition is a harsh reality. As I get older, simple things that I used to take for granted are becoming more and more difficult. I know everyone with Ataxia and other movement disorders...
Megan’s story is a true inspiration. She’s faced many challenges living with type 1 ataxia, a progressive neurological condition, but she’s never given up. She’s shown incredible strength, perseverance, and hope. Discovering the Diagnosis Megan’s story started with subtle symptoms that most people would ignore.  Like many people with Ataxia, her balance and coordination problems...
Population Estimate:  Fewer than 1000 people in the U.S. have this disease. Imagine waking up one day and finding it increasingly difficult to control your movements. Simple tasks like walking, writing, or even eating become monumental challenges.  This is the harsh reality for those living with ataxia, a group of neurological disorders that affect coordination...
Fueling your body with the right foods isn’t just a choice – it’s a powerful tool in your journey to living with the challenges of ataxia. By embracing a diet rich in complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, healthy fats, and vibrant fruits and vegetables, you’re not only nourishing your body but also unlocking a natural source...
1 … 16 17 18 19 20 … 22

My purpose

michael mantz
Life rarely goes as planned. This blog is about navigating what actually happens – major disruptions, health challenges, and the quieter work of figuring out who you are through all of it. I write from inside that process. I have Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA 15), a rare neurological condition that shapes my perspective but doesn’t define this space. Some articles are personal. Some are practical. All of them are honest.

More About Me

Follow Us



Follow this Blog via Email

Enter your email address to follow this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Popular Post

apple watch - ataxia
Revolutionizing Ataxia Management: The Apple Watch Benefits
December 9, 2023
Degenerative Neurological Disease
You degenerate, you!
March 8, 2025
Cerebellar Ataxia - MIchaelmantz ataxia blogs
Introducing Anoushka Speville
October 10, 2023

Recent Post

Ataxia and Swallowing Difficulties, ,
Choking on Water: When Ataxia Affects Swallowing
November 10, 2026
Invisible Disabilities Week, ,
What You See Isn’t Always What Someone Is Living With
October 22, 2026
AQNEURSA FDA approval ataxia, ,
A Win for A-T Isn’t a Win for SCA15, But It Still Matters
October 6, 2026

My New Stories

Ataxia and Swallowing Difficulties
Invisible Disabilities Week
AQNEURSA FDA approval ataxia
International Ataxia Awareness Day
REM sleep behavior disorder vs sleepwalking
Gyropack for ataxia
occupational therapy for ataxia
Friedreich's ataxia research