It all started in adolescence, when the first symptoms appeared: lack of balance when walking. Over time, the signs increased, and Lorena began to have difficulty speaking and swallowing food, in addition to double vision and atrophy in her hands.
Ataxia does not affect cognition, but it can cause… anxiety For the patient who consciously monitors the progression of his disease.
Her sister Maria Gabriela says: “It is not easy for a conscious woman to be trapped in a body that does not respond to her commands, but Lorena is very strong. We look at her and see that she copes much better than us.” Silva, who helps with communication, since the young woman’s ability to speak is limited.
Seven years ago, the family tried stem cell treatment in Thailand. They donated money and the young woman traveled, but the result was not satisfactory.
Time passed, and Lorena dreamed of having children, but the development of ataxia seemed to prevent motherhood. But last year, she got pregnant by her then-boyfriend.
“We were very worried about her health, and whether the pregnancy would be viable,” says Maria Gabriela. “Even the doctors didn’t know how to proceed, they all explained that this was completely new for them as well.”
Emily Brontë is a journalist and feature writer specialising in culture, entertainment, literature, and current affairs. She is dedicated to producing clear, accurate reporting that helps readers stay informed about developments in the UK and around the world.
