#274 From Adversity to Advocacy: Jennifer Gasner's Inspiring Path to Empowerment

Reinvent Yourself

"You don't have to be this perfect specimen in order to have value," says Jennifer Gasner, a true force of reinvention. Diagnosed at 17 with Friedrich's Ataxia, a rare neuromuscular disease, Jennifer has turned challenges into triumphs—with humor, resilience, and a passion for advocacy. Now an Amazon bestselling author, she shares how she found joy and balance beyond her diagnosis. Her memoir, My Unexpected Finding Balance Beyond My Diagnosis, offers profound lessons in adaptability and mindset. Tune in to discover how Gasner's journey can inspire your own reinvention and remind you that possibility thrives even in adversity.

Bio

At seventeen, Jennifer Gasner was diagnosed with Friedreich’s Ataxia, a rare neuromuscular disease, but her determination and humor helped her navigate life’s challenges, from using a walker to a wheelchair. She earned a BA in English from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and an MS in Recreation from Western Illinois University, where she cultivated a love for music and student engagement. Her career includes advocating for disability rights with Wisconsin’s Independent Living Centers, mentoring youth, and co-chairing UC San Diego’s disability staff association. As a Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance Ambassador, she raises awareness and champions rare disease legislation. Honored by the International Memoir Writers Association, Jennifer’s work, including her published story Diagnosis, reflects her passion for writing as she crafts a coming-of-age memoir, Walking is Overrated. Living in San Diego with her boyfriend Gregory and their two dogs, Wyatt and Ki, she enjoys yoga, movies, and travel.

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