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Disability
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...
Sometimes the most honest answer is, ‘I’m doing the best I can,’ and that’s more than enough. It’s a simple question: “How are you doing?” But when someone asks you this after you haven’t seen them for a while, especially when you’re living with a condition like Ataxia, it can feel like a loaded one....
Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will Mahatma Gandhi Living with a disability brings many challenges, but it also offers opportunities for growth, resilience, and hope. It is important to focus on the positives and find ways to adapt and thrive despite the difficulties. Understanding Disabilities Many different types...
Ian, born in 1956, shares his life experiences with ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T), an autosomal recessive condition.  At a young age, teachers noticed he fell more than other children, and at seven, he was misdiagnosed with cerebral palsy.  Despite his challenges, Ian enjoyed his childhood, especially piano lessons, until spasms forced him to stop. At eleven, Ian...
When we think about mobility aids, we often overlook the emotional journey that accompanies their use. In her blog post, Elise explores this journey, reflecting on the stigma and internal struggles she faced before fully embracing the use of mobility aids.  This story resonates deeply with many of us who have felt hesitant or embarrassed...
Let’s meet Krystal Schulze, whose journey with Ataxia took an unexpected turn due to a brain tumor. Discovered during her high school years.  Krystal shares her courageous story of resilience and adaptation as she navigates life with Acquired Cerebellar Ataxia (ACA). Diagnosed at the age of 18, Krystal’s life took a drastic turn as she...
Zoyeb Mohamed Zia’s life took a drastic turn when he was diagnosed with Ataxia during high school. Despite the initial challenges and uncertainty surrounding his condition, Zoyeb’s resilience and determination propelled him forward. Supported by his family, he pursued his education. And is now working as an Assistant Professor of Zoology, with plans to start...
Living with Ataxia comes with plenty of challenges, but one of the toughest hurdles is overcoming the misconceptions people have about the condition. I recently came across a blog post by Elise from Elisability titled Common Misconceptions About My Ataxia. Elise begins by addressing a myth many people with Ataxia encounter: mobility aids signify a...
Lily shares the lessons she’s learned from living with a disability. She discusses the challenges of physical limitations and the surprising wisdom and perspective she’s gained. Lily’s story is one of resilience, humility, and a commitment to personal growth. It reminds us that we can all learn by listening to others with similar stories. Lesson...
Getting a new diagnosis, especially one that brings life-changing challenges, can feel like you’re stepping into a world you didn’t choose.  It’s overwhelming and confusing, and you’re likely flooded with questions.  How will this impact your future?  What will it mean for your relationships, dreams, and future?  While every diagnosis journey is unique, the feelings...
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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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