My Thirty-Five Years with Ataxia

My name is Patricia Birdsong Hamilton. I was born and grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, graduated from Spelman College in Atlanta in 1974, and received my MBA from Atlanta University (now Clark – Atlanta University) in 1975. I am one of seven children born to Annie and R.C. Birdsong, am married and am the proud mother of one son and one daughter. I was diagnosed with Spinocerebellar Ataxia at the age of thirty-four. Because I was unable to find a book that could provide me with some insight into the way the disease may affect me, I decided to write my own.

My objective was to learn how to live with my medical condition. The books I wrote are about my personal experiences before and after my diagnosis. I discovered ways to cope with the disease, the way I came to grips with my situation and how I developed an attitude that enabled me to move on with my life. “My Thirty Five Years with Ataxia” is a book that chronologically describes the challenges I have experienced over the years. I define ataxia and reveal some family history concerning ataxia. Through out the book one has to keep in mind that we are chemically and biologically different and we react differently to medication. With A positive attitude, the support of God’s blessings, family and friends. I meet each hardship head on. Other books published by the author are: A Balancing Act: Living with Spinal Cerebellar Ataxia Coping Skills for the Ataxia Individual Broken Shell Not, a Broken Sprit Stretching Toward a Healthier You! A Balancing Act: Walking What’s UP? Why do You Walk Funny?