Crystal is a 16 yr. old high school junior in Southern California.  Though she looks like any healthy teenager who happens to be in a wheelchair, she is dealing with a progressive disease called Friedreich's ataxia.  This disease has robbed her of many of her abilities.  

During 1st grade we noted minor physical difficulties.  Within a short period she became clumsy and would fall unexpectedly.  The disease has advanced relentlessly and Crystal has suffered the consequences of it.  In 5th grade she was diagnosed with diabetes and the beginning of scoliosis.

When she started middle school she took along her first wheelchair. By the end of middle school she had missed over two months of school due to complications from major surgery to correct her severely curved spine.  She recovered just in time to attend her 8th grade graduation.  Though she sits taller thanks to the spinal fusion which uses rods and wires to keep her spine straight she still must visit a variety of doctors annually so they can monitor the progression of this disorder.  

Thanks to the fundraising efforts of FARA there is hope. We have finally turned the corner where new possilibities for treatments are on the horizon.         

Even though having FA has been difficult for her due to constant doctor visits, hospitalizations, etc., she has made the best of her situation.  Being a teenager Crystal just wants to be like everyone else.  She enjoys movies, hanging out at home with friends, and crafting.  She spends her free time making cards and making jewelry. Recently she was even offered the opportunity to sell her homemade items at a friends gift shop. This summer she looks forward to attending camp for a week with similar kids.