We're excited to come together - no matter which SEC team (or other team) you pull for - - - for the Walk n' Roll, a fundraiser supporting the National Ataxia Foundation. I'll be walking at the Atlanta event with my trusty hiking pole and thankfully we will be on a paved path. We need your support to make a difference. I'm passionate about this cause - especially since I have SCA 27b - and would love for you to learn more about SCA and help.

What is Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) ?

SCA or ataxia is a degenerative disease of the nervous system. Many symptoms mimic those of being drunk, such as slurred speech, stumbling, falling, and incoordination. These symptoms are caused by damage to the cerebellum, the part of the brain that is responsible for coordinating movement. SCA treatment involves a combination of medication to treat symptoms and therapy to improve quality of life, but there is no magic cure for the disease.

People affected by SCA may experience problems with using their fingers and hands, arms, legs, walking, speaking or moving their eyes. SCA affects people of all ages. Age of symptom-onset can vary widely, from childhood to late-adulthood. Complications from the disease are serious and oftentimes debilitating. Some types of SCA can lead to an early death. My type, SCA 27b is late onset and will not kill me, but has started impacting my balance and my speech, especially late in the day, and no more wine for me.

Yes SCA is rare - between 15,000 - 20,000 people are estimated to have a type of SCA in the US (not a great lottery to win).  Learn more about SCA and the important work of the Foundation at ataxia.org.

Here's how you can help:

• Donate: Contribute whatever you can. No amount is too small !
• Spread the Word: Share my fundraising page with your friends, family, and social networks. Let’s spread awareness so we can raise more!

Thank you for standing by me in this effort - and keeping me upright when needed  :-)