Growing Up with a Neurodegenerative Disease: Friedrich’s Ataxia
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Like most young women, Stephanie Magness wanted to be like everyone else; she wanted to fit in with her classmates and have fun at school. But in seventh grade when she learned she had scoliosis, Stephanie began an unexpected decade-long journey of misdiagnosis. At age 22 genetic testing confirmed that her symptoms were caused by Friedrich’s ataxia (FA), a rare neurodegenerative disease that has no cure.
This week on the podcast, Crystal is talking with Stephanie about her FA diagnosis and the unexpected changes and life transitions she’s made because of this progressive disease. Although losing some of her abilities related to walking and communication has not been easy, Stephanie has faced these challenges with the support of her community who have reminded her of God’s love in the most surprising of ways.
As she continues to adjust to life with a neurodegenerative disease, Stephanie takes comfort in the fact that God is in control and he his good. Even through her brokenness and the difficulties of FA, she can be used by him.
Read More from Stephanie
As we celebrate Friedrich’s Ataxia Awareness Day on May 15, Stephanie is sharing candidly about God’s beauty and goodness in the midst interrupted plans.
