Name: Annette
Age: 48
Where do you call home? South Louisiana
What’s a typical day for you? PT/exercise first thing in the morning, then full-time partner physician in a large medical practice
How long have you known you are living with FA? When and how were you diagnosed? Diagnosed with unknown ataxia 11 yrs ago, and in June 2026 it was updated when genetic testing confirmed FA.
Are there any others with FA in your family? Yes, my fraternal twin sister
Describe an adaptation and/or transition you have had to take due to living with FA: I use a walking aid when I feel I need to. Also, I have adjusted my work schedule to accommodate time to exercise and not expend all of my energy on work so I can enjoy activities outside of work.
What do you like to do to stay active and what type of exercises work for you to stay strong? I do some form of exercise every day. My primary focus is on weight training. I also enjoy rowing, cycling, and my SkiErg machine as well.
Do you have any hobbies or special interests? Exercising, reading, spending time with family and friends, watching American football and other sports.
What is a good trick to make daily life easier? I plan out my days so I know ahead of time how much energy I will be using. I stick to a routine, good diet, hydration, and sleep.
When FA gets you down, what do you think/do to feel better? I try to focus on the things I can still do.
What is one way living with FA has positively affected your life? It has made me really good with sticking to boundaries I set for myself and life and has made me slow down to enjoy things outside of work. It has motivated me to commit to a healthy lifestyle.
What is a favorite motivational quote of yours? “Control what you can.” – I do not know where the phrase originated
What is a piece of advice that someone with FA has given you that encourages and inspires you? Outside of myself and my sister, I haven’t met anyone with FA until now, so to be continued………..
What is the best advice you could give to a person who has been newly diagnosed with FA? Keep a journal of daily activities, diet, and physical symptoms so you can learn what you need to do to optimize your function, your energy, and your time.
What is the first thing you want to do when a cure for FA is found? Help everyone access the cure
“I have FA, but FA doesn’t have me.” What does this statement mean to you? I am not defined by a diagnosis.
How do you live your life in the face of adversity? I have always been a ‘just suck it up and do it’ kind of person. Do the hard things, face the challenges, and learn from experiencing adversity.
Interview by:
Mary Nadon Scott
Edited by:
Brittany Sommerfield