I Have Other Plans: Embracing Life with Ataxia
- Heather McAdam
- Jun 24
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 7
Living with ataxia has led me to create my own plans. I follow recommendations, but I also stick to what works for me. These are the things that support me daily.
Daily Practices that Nourish Me
I rely on supplements that provide steadier energy. I focus on clean, gluten-free, and dairy-free eating. This nourishes me from the inside out. Gentle movement, vibration, and restorative practices keep my body connected and strong. Meditation and breathing exercises calm my nervous system when ataxia or fatigue tries to take over.
I have always been an A-list personality. I’m a multi-tasker and a capable human. Ataxia has changed my steps and my speech, but it hasn’t changed who I am at my core. I still decide how to meet each day. I choose hope over fear, action over waiting, and self-trust over limitation.
The Power of Consistency
I’m not chasing big, dramatic changes. Instead, I’m choosing steady, consistent ataxia self-care. This is the kind of care that adds up over time. My personal story is one of ataxia empowerment and mindset. I’m sharing my wisdom, my research, and my daily wins with ataxia. I know deeply that I am more than a diagnosis.



