I was diagnosed with Friedreich’s ataxia at the age of 44, after experiencing symptoms for a couple of years. I am now 46.
December is a fairly busy month, socially, for all of us. Christmas is seen as a time of year to get together with friends and family. “We must catch up over Christmas” is a phrase you often hear.
Socialising is not quite the same for me now. I used to not give it a second thought, although thankfully I have always been very content in my own company.
This month, I had a work Christmas do and a friend’s Christmas do. I always say I will try my very best to be there, but there are lots of different caveats.
-
I have to be there early, so that I am not walking in (badly!) when everyone is already there.
-
I have to get parked easily, again so I am not running late (thankfully, I am still driving).
-
I do not drink alcohol when I am out of the house, for fear of falling.
-
I have to be the last to leave in the group, similar to being the first there. Again, it is all the psychology of thinking everyone is looking at you walking badly (they are not!).
Luckily, with these small adjustments, I have not missed a social gathering yet.
