Name: David Willis
Age: 41
Where do you call home? Manchester, Connecticut
Education (degree(s): Bachelor of Science – Occupational Safety and Health; Associate of Science – Treatment/Prevention of Alcohol and Chemical Dependency.
What is your relationship status? Do you have children? Single/Divorced with an 8-year-old son. Currently live alone in a single-story ranch.
What's a typical day for you? Since college graduation in 1999, I have worked for United HealthCare in many different capacities. In October 2017 my employer had mass layoffs which I was a part of. My typical day has changed drastically over the past 6 months. I currently spend my days trying to gain employment!
How long have you known you are living with FA? I have late on-set FA. I was in my late twenties when I began having balance problems and in my early thirties when speech difficulties began. It took countless doctors and about five years to get a confirmed diagnosis of FA. I was officially diagnosed in 2010.
Are there any others with FA in your family? None.
Describe your transition from walking to walker/wheelchair. In the beginning I tried hard to fight it. I would rely on walls, furniture, or whatever I could grab onto to stay upright. I shortly there after began using a cane (which didn’t help much but would reduce the speculation of onlookers regarding my sobriety). I currently have a few rollators in my house and use a Travelscoot (light weight scooter) if I leave the house.