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Coordination
Lily’s insightful article, “The Importance of Strength (Especially for the Physically Limited),” discusses something many of us can relate to—whether due to disability, age, or even a temporary injury. So, I wanted to share my thoughts on why building and maintaining strength is an essential activity for anyone with physical challenges. Our Bodies are Designed...
Most people don’t think twice about dexterity until it begins to fade. If you live with Ataxia, you may have noticed changes in your fine motor skills over time. Tasks like buttoning a shirt, typing, or even holding a cup of coffee now require more effort and focus.  So, what can you do to keep...
Well, I am a rebel, but I have never considered myself a “degenerate.” Yet, this word now sadly has a ring of truth to it since I was diagnosed with Ataxia. Regular readers of MichaelMantz.com know what Ataxia is. However, if you’ve just stumbled on the site, Ataxia is a degenerative neurological disease that can...
Strength doesn’t come from what you can do; it comes from overcoming the things you once thought you couldn’t. Staying active with Ataxia can feel like trying to climb a mountain on a foggy day—every step takes focus, and the way forward isn’t always easy to see. But here’s the surprising part: keeping your body...
One of the most common questions people ask after an Ataxia diagnosis—whether for themselves or a loved one—is, “What kind of jobs can someone with Ataxia do?” It’s a fair question. Ataxia can make many jobs more challenging—there’s no getting around that. When your movement, balance, and coordination become unpredictable, it changes how you approach...
I recently watched part of the Christopher Reeve: The Man of Steel documentary on CNN. After his accident, he said something that stuck with me: “It’s hard to go from participant to observer.” That line hit me in a way I didn’t expect. It summed up something I’ve felt, something many of us with Ataxia...
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional about any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.   Introduction: Why a Sleep Study Could Be Essential for Ataxia Patients The question of fatigue and...
Do you ever wonder why you feel so good after a great workout or a delicious meal?It’s all thanks to dopamine, the brain’s feel-good chemical. Scientists have been studying how Dopamine Pathways works and made some amazing discoveries! It turns out that dopamine isn’t just about feeling good. It also plays a big role in...
What if the toughest battles people face are the ones you can’t see?When we think of disabilities, we usually picture things we can see, like someone in a wheelchair or with a guide dog.  But what about the ones you can’t see right away?  That’s where ‘Invisible disabilities’ come in. Defining Invisible Disabilities Invisible disabilities...
Just because I carry it well, doesn’t mean it isn’t heavy. Living with ataxia is like walking around with a secret.  People see you on the outside and think you’re fine, but on the inside………there are many hidden challenges of living with Ataxia!  It’s tough when people make assumptions and don’t understand what you’re going...
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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.

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