CHRIS MEYER
Injury/Diagnosis: Friedreick’s Ataxia
Date of injury/diagnosis: 1999
Start date in the program: 1/19/2022
Around 1995, my friends and family began to notice abnormalities with my walking and movements. Senior year in high school, my balance severely declined as well as any athleticism. I went to a family physician at Kaiser Permanente because of my poor balance and other various vague symptoms. The doctor immediately referred me to a neurologist who studied me and took blood for a genetic test. When I visited with the neurologist my genetic test confirmed I had Friedreich's Ataxia (FA). My mom and I left Kaiser Permanente with very little information or understanding of Friedreich's Ataxia. After going home and researching the internet with my parents about FA and reading the information we were devastated. There was no treatment or cure for this genetic life shortening neuromuscular disorder called Friedreich's Ataxia. My mobility and motor skills would continue to slowly decline. Basically, my nervous system is having trouble communicating with my muscles. Having several treatments for FA on the horizon, The Perfect Step helps me prepare my body for future treatments. All while slowing down my progression and increasing my independence. Exercise is my medicine and TPS shares that same value. Giving me access to knowledgeable therapists and the the necessary equipment has given me a space and the motivation to reach my recovery goals. It has given me hope for a future. Thank you for giving me hope for a better tomorrow. Thank you TPS for helping with my recovery journey.
