Megan LeeperName: Megan Leeper

Age: 21

Where do you call home? Burleson, Texas. The DFW area.

What is a current goal you have with your education? I am working on getting a Bachelor's degree in psychology with a focus in forensics.

What is your relationship status? I currently live with my parents and two dogs.

What's a typical day for you? A typical day for me is pretty laid back since my schooling is now online. Physical Therapy is twice a week, and because I struggle with fatigue, I am mostly a homebody.

How long have you known you are living with FA? I found out I had FA after a nerve biopsy. Every doctor struggled with figuring out what was wrong. My genetics were examined to confirm FA.

Are there any others with FA in your family? No one else has it. The closest thing would be that my grandma's late sister had ALS and was diagnosed with it about the same time as my FA.

Describe your transition from walking to walker/wheelchair. It was really hard transitioning. I was used to walking since I was in dance, my high school's drumline and theatre program so being on my feet was necessary. It was a big change that I am still not used to.

Megan L collageWhat do you like to do to stay active and what type of exercises work for you to stay strong? I recently got a Catrike that I can't wait to use (it has been SO HOT!!) Also I recently bought a yoga and aerobics DVD specifically for wheelchair users that aren't for the elderly.

Do you have any hobbies or special interests? I bake and cook (not as much since my kitchen is hard to navigate around).

What is a good trick to make daily life easier? I just do what I can and know that it's okay that I have a bad day every now and then. I just keep going.

When FA gets you down, what do you think/do to feel better? I remember that I have a good support system and team behind me. Cuddling my dogs help when I need immediate support.

What is one way living with FA has POSITIVELY affected your life? It has helped me open my eyes to people with special needs and how I try to fight for them.

What is a favorite motivational quote of yours? Just keep swimming! – Dory from "Finding Nemo"

What is the best advice YOU could give to a person who has been newly diagnosed with FA? Your life is going to change, it will be hard, but do not be afraid to ask for help!

What is the first thing you want to do when a cure/treatment to FA is found? I would probably dance or skip. They are the things I miss doing on a regular basis the most.

I have FA but FA doesn't have me." What does this statement mean to you? Even though I have this disease, I am still me. I just come with a wheelchair now.

Tell us a little more about you...I am a total Disney nerd and I LOVE Marvel movies.

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