Name: Silvia
Age: 18
Where do you call home? Paraíba, Brazil
What is your education [degree(s)]? What is a current goal you have with your education? I am in my third year of high school, I intend to study nutrition.
What’s a typical day for you? Gym, then school
How long have you known you are living with FA? For 5 years.
Describe your transition from walking to walker/wheelchair: It was difficult, but seeing that I REALLY had no choice, I went to a walker.
What do you like to do to stay active and what type of exercises work for you to stay strong? I go to the gym, Pilates, and cardio on the treadmill.
Do you have any hobbies or special interests? I like reading.
What is one way living with FA has POSITIVELY affected your life? In finding true friendships.
What is a piece of advice that someone with FA has given you that encourages and inspires you? Don’t give up, medicine won’t let us down.
What is the best advice YOU could give to a person who has been newly diagnosed with FA? Now that you have a diagnosis, you can fight for recognition.
What is the first thing you want to do when a cure/treatment to FA is found? A 5km (3 miles) run or trail run.
“I have FA but FA doesn’t have me.” What does this statement mean to you? I try to live obeying the limits of FA but I don’t let it stop me.
What do you wish the general public understood about FA or disabilities? That we can be normal within our limits.
Interviewed by
Natache Iamaya Gomes