Name: Jude Lally
Age: 35
Where do you call home? Lexington, KY
Education (degree(s)): Bachelor Business Administration from University of Kentucky
What is your relationship status? Do you have children? I am single, and live alone. I do have a fur baby/guard dog named Jermaine.
What's a typical day for you? A typical day for me begins and ends with caregivers coming to my house. The A.M. assistant helps me get out of bed, and ready for the day. This person performs general dog maintenance, meal prep, house chores, and some exercise. In between caregivers, I work on a new book, fulfill computer activities/phone calls, or watch Netflix, The P.M assistant helps with more exercising, personal care, and sleep-ready activities.
How long have you known you are living with FA? My official diagnosis was in 1998, however, my family and I, knew something was wrong a few years prior. It has been 19 years diagnosed with FA.
Are there any others with FA in your family? No one in my family, except me, has FA.
Describe your transition from walking to walker/wheelchair with FA. I maintained walking until college. I transitioned to a scooter around campus, then 18 months later, a wheelchair. For me, it was a tough transition. Every transition I make, from equipment to home modifications reminds me of disease progression. To some degree, it’s always an emotional process.