I was a high school baseball coach for 25 seasons and had a successful 20 years in as the Public Address announcer for all the programs football and basketball games – both boys and girls. About five years ago, I sold my lucrative Financial Planning practice of 33 years and was looking forward to a fun filled retirement when I began to notice something was wrong. My balance was askew and I had a few cognitive issues plus my speech was impacted as well. After several exams, I was told I had MSA-C and my brain was actually shrinking. I left coaching and gave up announcing (easier said than done – I miss it all very much) cold turkey for life of reading and watching television. I’m bored. My friends say not but walk tentatively and I can hear it my speech. At times, I feel helpless.
When Were You Diagnosed? Which Type (If Known)?
Two months ago- MSA-C.
How Has Ataxia Impacted Your Life?
I can barely walk anymore and my wife does all the chores.
What is One Thing You’d Like the People to Know About Ataxia?
My wife is as trapped as I am.
Share Your Advice – How Can Others Support Someone with Ataxia?
Exercise-go for walks daily and three times a week I meet up with a support group at an MMA boxing site.
What is Your Ataxia Story?
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