Kim AyresName: Kim Ayres

Age: 49

Where do you call home? Maple Grove, MN

Education degree(s): 2 Year Associates Degree

Who do you live with? I live with my husband Bob. Our 3 kids are now young adults. Gunnar is 24, Carson is 23 and Madison is 21.

How long have you known you are living with FA? I was diagnosed in 2011 but showed signs as early as 2004.

Are there any others with FA in your family? Yes, my younger brother Bill.

Describe your transition from walking to walker/wheelchair. Transitioning to a walker was very tough for me. I went through a little pride issue for a while. Moving into the wheelchair gave me more freedom and helped relieve some joint pain.

What do you like to do to stay active and what type of exercises work for you to stay strong? I do a few exercises with stretchy bands. Some days getting dressed or putting on my shoes is enough exercising for the day.

Do you have any hobbies or special interests? I love taking care of my flowers and also enjoy cooking & baking.

What is a good trick to make daily life easier? Grab bars by the toilets!

Kim Ayres collageWhen FA gets you down, what do you think/do to feel better? I try and take a minute to reflect on all the good things in my life.

What is one way living with FA has POSITIVELY affected your life? It has really put my life into perspective and lets me focus on what is really important.

What is a favorite motivational quote of yours? When God gives you lemons, make Lemonade.

What is the best advice YOU could give to a person who has been newly diagnosed with FA? Always look for the positives life has to offer. We are given one opportunity to play this game called life, make it count.

What is the first thing you want to do when a cure/treatment to FA is found? Many, throw the biggest party EVER, walk in the sand, drive a car, hike on a trail, run up and down the steps etc...

How do you live your life in the face of adversity? I can't do anything about this beautiful gift that was given to me but I have the opportunity to make others see people with disabilities in a different light.

Tell us a little more about you.....FA is quite a journey. The support of my husband, kids, and friends mean the world to me, so spending as much time with them as I can is very important to me. Watching birds from my deck, drinking a glass of wine, and tending to my flowers are the best things in life!

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