'This is the way it is': How Ita is coping with life-changing condition
Ita, 83, remains positive despite facing challenges after her 2021 back surgery, which led to the diagnosis of an isolated gait disorder. Though she now uses a wheelchair, she keeps an active mind and strong spirit.
"I haven't walked properly since the back surgery," she said.
Doctors remain unsure whether the surgery caused her condition or how it may develop. Still, Ita finds comfort in the fact that she no longer suffers back pain and continues to stay mentally engaged.
"I'm dependent on other people to help me get around and that's one of the adjustments," she said.
Rather than dwell on limitations, Ita chooses to focus on what she can control, staying productive and writing.
"I can either feel sorry for myself and do nothing, or I can take control of my life, as I always have," she said.
Ita acknowledges her frustration with the lack of research funding into her illness but remains determined.
"Life is full of detours," she said.
Writing as a renewal
Recently, Ita completed her twelfth book, Unapologetically Ita, her second memoir and the first one written fully in retirement. She describes the process as both freeing and enjoyable.
"It was a relief to write a book and discover how much fun it is when you don't have to keep leaving it to go back to the job you do," she said.
Author’s Summary
Ita’s story is one of resilience—despite losing mobility, she channels positivity and purpose through creativity, adapting gracefully to life’s unexpected turns.