Name: Xhesika Peza
Age: 22
Where do you call home? Tirana,Albania
Education: I am studying pharmacy.
Do you have children? No, but I live for that day.
What is a typical day for you? School, physical exercises, and 20 minutes walking
How long have you known you are living with FA? I had symptoms when I was 17 years old,but I refused going to a doctor. In my country there is little specialized medical training for rare disorders, so I traveled to Vienna, Austria. There I was diagnosed when I was 19 years old.
Are there any others with FA in your family? No.
Describe your transition from walking to walker: I still can walk. (In my opinion my walking now is better than before diagnosis!)
Do you have any hobbies or special interests? Traveling, reading books, practicing all the foreign languages that I speak!
When FA gets you down, what do you think or do to feel better? I dance to my favorite music.
What is one way living with FA has positively affected your life? I have met my physiotherapist, who is a wonderful person. Now, I don’t worry about as much housework as I use to do before. I can use the public transport free. I don’t have to wait as long in airport lines!
What is a favorite motivational quote of yours? “You never know how strong you are, until being strong is the only choice you have.”
What is a piece of advice that someone with FA has given you that encourages and inspires you? I have FA, but FA doesn’t have me.
What is the best advice you can give to someone who is newly diagnosed with FA? No one fights alone.
I have FA, but FA doesn’t have me. What does this statement means to you? I am not defined by my disabilities.
