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Song: Hurt- Johnny Cash

Hey everyone, A Family Disease is a memoir by Dana Lorene Creighton that explores the impact of ataxia (specifically SCA 2) on her family. Dana’s mother had the disease, and she knew there was a 50% chance she could inherit it, too. This knowledge shaped much of her life, from childhood to adulthood.

Growing up, Dana struggled with the emotional and physical toll of watching her mother change. She went from being a strong and loving presence to someone who struggled to control her body and emotions. As Dana got older, she had to decide whether to get tested for the disease, knowing that a positive result would mean she would face the same fate as her mother. The book explores her fears, her relationships, and her journey to find peace despite the uncertainty.

Throughout the memoir, Dana reflects on how the disease didn’t just affect her mother—it shaped her entire family. The stress, fear, and grief spread like a “family disease,” affecting everyone who loved them. But despite the challenges, she learns to focus on the present, appreciate the people around her, and find joy in small moments.

Her journey is about resilience, self-discovery, and the power of hope. She learns that while she cannot control the disease, she can control how she chooses to live. Through writing, therapy, and connection with others, she finds strength. She realizes that life isn’t just about how much time you have, but how you use it.

10 Inspirational Quotes:

1. “Fear only has the power you give it.”
2. “I will not let uncertainty steal my happiness.”
3. “Some things are out of our hands, but how we live is always our choice.”
4. “Strength isn’t about being unbreakable; it’s about putting yourself back together.”
5. “Hope is a kind of rebellion against despair.”
6. “I am more than my DNA.”
7. “Even in the darkest moments, love still shines through.”
8. “Letting go of control isn’t the same as giving up.”
9. “Time is precious, but presence is even more valuable.”
10. “What we fear most doesn’t have to define us.”

In the end, A Family Disease is a powerful story about facing the unknown, finding peace in difficult times, and learning to live fully, no matter what the future holds.