MDA Ambassador Guest Blog: Embracing Resilience and Navigating Life’s Unexpected Turns

Sorayda Rivera is a 37-year-old, first-generation Mexican American woman from Texas living with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) type 3. Diagnosed at age three, Sorayda has defied expectations, building a life filled with purpose and resilience. She holds an associate degree in Public Relations and Advertising and a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication with a minor in Graphic Design. As a speaker, she shares her journey of living with SMA to inspire others to embrace adaptability and self-empowerment, believing everyone can find inspiration in the world around them.

Sorayda “Sory” Rivera

I was diagnosed with a form of muscular dystrophy when I was just three years old. My parents learned about my condition and the challenges it would bring, but I only came to understand the reality myself at 13. I found a letter on our kitchen table that they had written outlining my diagnosis and the life expectancy that had loomed over me for so long. Reading that letter transformed how I saw the world and myself, opening my eyes to the meaning of gratitude. Today, I’m a public speaker and advocate, sharing my story while balancing work, school, and caring for two beloved dogs, both with their own health challenges.

As I write this, I find myself at a crossroads. I’ve had a semester full of excitement and growth as a new graduate student, but it has also been mentally and physically overwhelming. With multiple speaking engagements, the pressure of juggling graduate school, work, and personal responsibilities has been immense. After much reflection, I’m facing a tough decision: taking a step back from my graduate studies to prioritize my well-being.

The decision-making process wasn’t easy. I’ve always seen education as a pathway to independence and purpose, so choosing to pause grad school felt like letting go of something significant. Over several weeks, I weighed the pros and cons, talked with family and friends, and reflected on my values and long-term goals.

I began noticing symptoms of the stress I was under, which helped me recognize the need for a change. First, I forgot to turn in an assignment I’d spent hours working on, resulting in my second zero of the semester. Then, while traveling for a speaking engagement in Monroe, Louisiana, I forgot to pack my medication and, even more importantly, my power chair charger—items that are my lifelines and things I never leave without. These incidents made me realize that my stress was impacting areas of my life I usually manage with great care.

“Fish” is one of Sorayda’s beloved dogs

After discussing everything with my psychologist, I finally accepted that I needed to take a step back to prioritize my mental health. This break isn’t about abandoning my dreams but honoring my limitations and giving myself the chance to reset. One day, when I’m ready and mentally prepared, I hope to return to grad school. For now, I’m working on accepting that a degree doesn’t define my worth or the importance of who I am.

While I knew leaving graduate school was the best thing to do at the moment, I struggled with feelings of failure, questioning if I was “giving up.” But life has taught me a valuable lesson in grace. Giving myself grace means understanding that this decision isn’t a failure; it’s a lesson and a necessary step to keep moving forward without compromising my health.

These last few months have brought challenges not just in school but also in my personal life. After nine years with my partner, we endured a difficult breakup, another reminder that not all things are meant to be forever. And as much as that change hurt, it’s led me to recognize my resilience. I believe that in life, we live, love, and lose, all while never giving up. Sometimes, the most challenging choices lead to the most profound growth.

I’ve learned to practice self-care through regular meditation, exercise, and spending time with my dogs. I also love to write. Writing has always been a vital outlet, especially during challenging times. I love to journal because it allows me to process my thoughts, helping me work through my problems with clarity and peace.

“Buddy” is one of Sorayda’s beloved dogs

My two beloved dogs, Buddy and Fish, have also been a source of joy and concern as they navigate their health challenges. Buddy, my 14-year-old poodle, has been a faithful companion for many years. He has lived with seizures for over a decade, and recently, he was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. I know that soon, I’ll need to make some difficult decisions about his care, but for now, every day with him is precious. On the other hand, Fish, my spunky 8-year-old long-haired chihuahua, has been struggling with gastrointestinal issues for months. We’re still working to find the proper treatment for him, and despite his health struggles, his resilient spirit never fails to bring a smile to anyone who meets him. Buddy and Fish remind me daily of the love and strength that exists even in the face of illness.

Alongside caring for my health and my pets, I am deeply committed to my public speaking and advocacy work, which brings me a profound sense of purpose. I believe people can find inspiration in everything, and I was given the gift of gab to help others on their journeys. By sharing my experiences, I hope to encourage those living with disabilities—and anyone facing challenges—to pursue their goals with resilience and adaptability. Each story may be unique, but the strength to overcome is universal, and I find fulfillment in inspiring others to embrace that strength in their own lives.

Sorayda “Sory” Rivera

I’ve learned resilience isn’t about sticking to the same course no matter what—it’s about knowing when it’s time to pause, adapt, or change direction. Making these choices doesn’t make us weak; they make us human. They remind us that in a world of high expectations, it’s okay to step back, reassess, and decide what truly matters. Life isn’t always easy, but I have convinced myself that it doesn’t have to be impossible.

So – here’s to embracing resilience, trusting ourselves, and giving ourselves the grace to make tough decisions and adapt to life’s many changing paths with joy and gratitude.