‘My life, my rules’: how Nevonia Moodley broke barriers while living with a rare disorder

AT 12 YEARS OLD, Nevonia Moodley was diagnosed with a tare neurological disorder that affected her mobility.

- NADIA KHAN

Today, Moodley, 35, is a published author and disability rights activist, and she has fulfilled dreams like horse riding despite her condition.

Her story is one of extraordinary determination in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

Moodley, of Chatsworth, said after what seemed to be signs of a flu, she was diagnosed with Friedreich’s Ataxia which caused progressive damage to the nervous system, leading to a loss of muscle coordination and other symptoms like slurred speech, fatigue and scoliosis.

She said while growing up, she always strived to be the best.

“I saw the world differently than most people, so I tried to make the best of it. I was more academically inclined and my studies were always my first priority. However, I ran, jumped and danced like any normal child. I even tried sports such as netball, cricket and running.

“When I suddenly fell ill when I was 12 years old, and then discovered I had a rare genetic disorder, my whole life came to a standstill. I was angry, sad and depressed.