Our Friend, Ali, is back with a great bog post. In this piece, he talks about the importance of raising awareness and not being afraid.
It’s very important to raise awareness about ataxia by reaching out to those around us. We have to show the community that we exist, and we can only do this by speaking up. We need to do our best and be in solidarity with each other because that is the only way we can move forward.
Living with ataxia is, of course, very difficult but constantly having to tell people what ataxia is and how it affects us can sometimes be insufficient, and honestly, that on its own more exhausting. It becomes so repetitive and tiring that you lose patience. However, I feel good every time I raise awareness and make a difference. Even though it can be tough at times, I keep going. Ataxia is basically my identity/my life, yes, it’s evil and it has its downsides, but it also has its upsides. Thanks to my ataxia, I am now more strong-willed, determined and I have learned to stand up against all the inconveniences.
We are approaching Christmas and New Year; this is a new beginning for us. Let’s continue to make a difference. The Big Give campaign is very soon, and this is a great time for you to support Ataxia UK. I invite everyone to be sensitive. Whether it might be donating or just sharing the campaign link with your family and friends, there is no such thing as little help. You can support the Big Give campaign by sharing it on your social media platforms and tell as many people as you can. If we act together, not alone, then we can be more effective. Let’s build a good future together and show our solidarity.
Some people shy away from taking action because they feel judged. It’s true that not everyone is understanding, and some have a different mindset, so we ataxians feel like we should put in the extra effort to explain ourselves. Some of us get scared and upset that we might be misunderstood, but we in fact, need to be heard and seen. Nothing should stop us from doing what we enjoy. I also sometimes fear that I will be judged by people, but then, I remember I am not alone. There are plenty of friends out there who go through similar struggles. This is why I always find a way to adapt myself to life’s challenges.
