Name:
Becky Taylor
Age:
50
Where do you call home?
Vancouver, WA
Who do you live with?
My dog, Murray
What are some of your interests or hobbies?
Making jewelry, reading, watching college football, exercising, teaching, listening to true crime podcasts, shopping
What is your education?
Master’s in Education
When were you first diagnosed with FA?
In my early 20’s.
What are some life hacks that you use daily to make life easier living with FA?
I don’t know if these are considered “hacks,” but here is a list of things that help me daily:
-Using Alexa to control the lights in my home as well as my shower.
-Superpole in my bathroom
-Hand controls in my car (I only drive in my neighborhood/no freeways.)
-Voice-to-text on my phone
-I own an AlterG treadmill that provides me with the support I need to walk.
-Mobility scooter/manual wheelchair
-Order groceries online and pick up
What has living with FA taught you?
It is hard to put 30 years of living with FA, and what it has taught me, into words. I have become a much more determined person and a mentally strong person. I have learned how to persevere through difficult times. I’ve also learned to appreciate the little things in life that others might take for granted. Living with FA has taught me that it is ok to be vulnerable and ask for help.
When FA gets you down, what makes you feel better?
Talking to/spending time with friends and family, exercising, going to work, having a good cry, cuddling my dog
What advice would you give to someone who has been newly diagnosed?
Don’t be embarrassed to use a mobility device. It can keep you safe, help you maintain your independence, and help you conserve energy. Get involved with a local group of people with FA, or other disabilities, who can understand and support you. Don’t be afraid to talk to a therapist.
What are some things you are struggling with now that you didn’t struggle with in the past?
Great question! I am specifically struggling with my ankle stability, not being able to drive long distances, and muscle weakness.
What is one way living with FA has positively changed your life?
The people I have met and friends I have made in the disability community have been very positive in my life. Also, struggling with FA has made me mentally stronger.
I have FA, but FA doesn’t have me. What does that statement mean to you?
To be honest, there are days when it feels like FA does have me, but most days I try to live my life in a positive, productive way and try to power through my limitations. I think this quote means that we shouldn’t “give in” to FA, and we should keep trying to find joy in life.
Interviewed and Edited By
Michael Gambino