#108: A Mother Discusses the Approval of Evrysdi for Infants With SMA

In episode 52, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Luisa Palazola, a Community Manager for SMA News Today. Luisa is from Memphis, Tennessee, and she has another rare genetic condition called cystic fibrosis. During this conversation, she talks about her story and advocacy work, what she’s learned about SMA through her work here, and the upcoming event Rare Disease Day. To learn more about Spinal Muscular Atrophy, visit www.smanewstoday.com.

18 Feb 202039min

Finding the balance between living cautiously and fearfully can be challenging. Forums moderator DeAnn Runge shares how she navigates that delicate balance. Also, SMA News Today’s multimedia associate, Price Wooldridge, discusses how magnetic rods may be an alternative treatment to correct scoliosis in children with SMA. Are you interested in learning more about spinal muscular atrophy? If so, please visit https://smanewstoday.com/

17 Feb 20206min

SMA News Today’s multimedia associate, Price Wooldridge, discusses an early access program from Roche for SMA therapy Risdiplam in Europe and forums Director Kevin Schaefer talks about forming friendships with his caregivers, and why he thinks this is important. Are you interested in learning more about spinal muscular atrophy? If so, please visit https://smanewstoday.com/

14 Feb 20204min

Some recent topics being discussed on the forums include accessible travel and becoming friends with your caregivers. Also, Dose of DeAnn has a new episode where she collaborates with a community member to talk about the importance of exercise, and forums Director Kevin Schaefer talks about his time working for his college student newspaper. Are you interested in learning more about spinal muscular atrophy? If so, please visit smanewstoday.com/

12 Feb 20206min

SMA News Today’s multimedia associate, Price Wooldridge, discusses a new treatment algorithm for SMA infants diagnosed via vital newborn screening. Also, for those with mobility issues one of the most difficult aspects of life can be going to the bathroom. Options to make it easier do exist. A couple options that can be discussed with a doctor are a suprapubic catheter or a Mitrofanoff. Are you interested in learning more about spinal muscular atrophy? If so, please visit https://smanewstoday.com/

10 Feb 20205min

SMA News Today’s multimedia associate, Price Wooldridge, discusses how the ZPR1 protein may be a new potential therapeutic target for SMA. Also, Forums Director Kevin Schaefer talks about an NBC pilot, in which one of the main characters is a kid with SMA. Are you interested in learning more about spinal muscular atrophy? If so, please visit https://smanewstoday.com/

7 Feb 20205min

Forums Director Kevin Schaefer talks about embracing the power of his voice in his latest column. Also, every family goes through their share of triumphs and tribulations. In Michael Casten’s latest column he reflects on their most recent struggles as a family. Are you interested in learning more about spinal muscular atrophy? If so, please visit smanewstoday.com/

5 Feb 20205min

In episode 51, I talked with Ryan Manriquez and Nora Zade from Sacramento, California. Ryan is a college student with SMA Type 2, and he and Nora have been dating for several months. Both are sophomores at Folsom Lake College, and they’ll be transferring to UC Davis this fall. Throughout this conversation, they talk about their relationship, college life, and more.

4 Feb 202021min