Live Better
SMA and the new miracle drug Spinraza
Spinal muscular atrophy, or SMA, is a genetic disease that attacks nerve cells in the spinal cord. These nerve cells, known as motor neurons, communicate with the voluntary muscles in the body, such as those in the arms and legs. As more neurons are lost, muscles start to weaken and breathing, crawling, swallowing, and walking can become more difficult. It also can be difficult for those with SMA to control movements in their heads and necks. Though SMA runs in families, parents can exhibit no symptoms but still carry the gene. There are many types of SMA, and, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, the type of SMA is determined by the age of onset and the severity of symptoms. SMA Type I is evident at birth or within the first few months of a child being born. Symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, feeble movements of the arms and legs, loose limbs and trunk, impaired breathing, and a weak sucking reflex. SMA Type II is evident between the ages of six and 18 months, and the legs are typically more impaired than the arms. An early indicator may be a baby who is not crawling or walking. SMA Type III may be evident when a child reaches his or her toddler years, but sometimes does not appear until adolescence. When a child has SMA Type III, he or she may have trembling fingers and may experience difficulty getting up from a sitting position. Children with SMA Type II or Type III are at an increased risk of respiratory infections.
What causes SMA?
According to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, chromosome 5 SMA, the most common form of SMA, is caused by a deficiency of SMN, a motor neuron protein. This protein is necessary for normal motor neuron function, and a deficiency of SMN is caused by mutations on chromosome 5 in the SMN1 gene. Mutations in other genes may also cause SMA, and such cases are referred to as non-chromosome 5 SMA.
What are the symptoms of SMA?
There are various types of SMA, and the symptoms can vary depending on the type of SMA a person has. The following are some of the symptoms associated with the various types of SMA.
- Type 1: Type 1 is the most severe type of SMA. When a child is type 1, he or she may have difficulty supporting his or her head and sitting without help. Difficulty swallowing and weakness in the arms and legs may also occur. The muscles that control breathing also can be compromised when a child has type 1 SMA, and breathing problems can affect a child’s life expectancy.
- Type 2: Type 2 SMA typically affects the legs more than the arms. Type 2 SMA affects children between six and 18 months of age, and such kids may be able to sit, stand or walk with help.
- Type 3: The mildest form of SMA, type 3 may be referred to as juvenile SMA. Children with type 3 can often stand or walk without help, but they may have difficulty climbing stairs, getting up from a chair or running.
- Type 4: Type 4 SMA begins in adulthood, and men and women may experience muscle weakness, twitching or breathing problems. Physical therapy can help men and women better manage their symptoms, which typically only affect the upper arms and legs.
Recently the FDA approved an amazing new drug Spinraza to treat symptoms of SMA and prolong these life of individuals taking Spinraza. With a few injections, patients with SMA may be able to gain muscle strength and live longer by a year or more. It cost $125,000 an injection, and in the first two months one takes 4 injections in the spine. That’s half a million dollars for the first four shots. Subsequent costs for this possibly lifelong therapy are expected to be about $375,000 annually, with about three injections required each year. While this may seem extremely expensive the drug was developed to save lives, along with some resources available to help individuals requiring the drug. With coverage being more readily available to those effected the most, starting with SMA type I. Remember if you are trying to obtain Spinraza use every resource available at your disposal and educate yourself on the drug, available resources, and your healthcare. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and challenge your neurologist who would prescribe Spinraza along with your insurance representative, and if you have to, seek out a social worker for assistance. Be your own advocate. Take into account this drug has been developed and approved in a significantly short amount of time. Spinraza is for a relatively low percentage of the population, lots of money and resources were put into the development of this drug. For more information and resources go to SMAnewstoday.com. Remember to connect yourself with other individuals with SMA to share resources and connect with others who are going through the same thing you may be experiencing with SMA.
Parents can also learn more about SMA by visiting the Muscular Dystrophy Association online at www.mda.org & www.curesma.org
(Feature Impact) You’re not imagining it – like many goods and services, pet care costs have gone up.
In fact, Healthy Paws Pet Insurance reported a 38% increase in pet services over the past five years with pet parents spending more than $4,200 a year on routine expenses for a cat or dog.
Lots of factors are driving increased costs, from higher ingredient prices for pet food – like meat and grains – to veterinary drug shortages. Add in rising labor and transportation costs and those everyday expenses can start to take a bigger bite out of your budget.
There are simple ways to keep costs in check, however, while still giving your furry friends the care they deserve:
1. Prioritize Preventive Care
Routine checkups, vaccinations and screenings can catch health issues early when they are easier and less expensive to treat. Most pets should see a veterinarian at least once a year, while puppies, kittens and senior pets may need more frequent visits.
Preventive medications play an important role as well. Treating heartworm disease, for example, can cost thousands while monthly prevention costs $15-$30.
2. Focus on Daily Wellness
Consistent exercise helps reduce the risk of chronic conditions and supports overall health. Most dogs benefit from at least 30 minutes of daily activity while cats need regular play to stay active.
Feeding appropriate portions can also help with weight maintenance. Portion sizes vary, but a good starting point is the feeding guidelines on your pet food label, adjusting as needed with your veterinarian’s input.
3. Find Support in Your Community
Many local humane societies and rescue groups offer resources that make pet care more accessible, including low-cost vaccinations, spay and neuter services and discounted supplies.
For seniors, local Meals on Wheels providers can be important resources. With support from PetSmart Charities, many local providers offer free pet food and, in some cases, services like veterinary care and grooming. To date, 20 million pet meals have been delivered through this collaboration, helping keep pets healthy and in loving homes with older adults.
4. Plan Ahead for Unexpected Costs
Even with routine care, unexpected illnesses or injuries can happen – and costs can add up. The PetSmart Charities-Gallup State of Pet Care research revealed 52% of pet parents skipped or declined veterinary care services in 2025, with the majority citing cost as the key barrier.
Pet insurance can help manage risk. Most policies reimburse a percentage of covered veterinary costs after you meet a deductible, helping offset unexpected bills. Plans vary, but average monthly premiums are around $60 for dogs and $30 for cats.
It’s also important to be open with your veterinarian about financial concerns. In many cases, clinics may be able to offer payment plans, or look for low-cost-veterinary care resources in your area.
To find a local provider and learn whether pet support is available in your area, visit mealsonwheelsamerica.org/lovepets.
A Companion Through It All
A devastating cancer diagnosis left Lois hospitalized for eight months. Afterward, she began receiving home-delivered meals through her local Meals on Wheels provider. That connection proved to be a lifeline.
“When I was sick,” Lois said, “the Meals on Wheels volunteers … were the only company I had.”
That changed when a small white kitten with calico markings showed up at her front door. Today, that kitten – now named Grace – is rarely far from Lois’s side.
Though Grace softens Lois’s loneliness, caring for a pet on a fixed income isn’t always easy. For many seniors, it can mean making difficult choices, like stretching groceries or delaying medical care, just to afford pet food and supplies. Through support from her local provider, food is delivered for Grace as part of Lois’s regular meal service, helping keep them both healthy, happy and, most importantly, together.
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(Family Features) In a world where everyone is juggling busy schedules and endless choices, it’s only natural to want more from your vehicle. Not just more features, but more comfort, more quality and more enjoyment every time you get behind the wheel.
According to recent survey data from Mazda, 74% of car buyers said special features are “very” or “extremely important,” but 30% admitted they don’t have any features worth showing off to friends or family. This is the “luxury letdown;” the excitement of new features fades, leaving you wanting something more meaningful from your car.
People are looking for more than just bells and whistles. They want a car that feels good to drive, that is thoughtfully designed and that brings more joy and satisfaction to everyday life. It’s not about having the most options or the flashiest tech. It’s about all that and quality, comfort and a sense of connection that lasts long after the new car smell fades.
Beyond the Surface
Forget what you think you know about luxury vehicle features. The most memorable cars are typically built with an incredible attention to detail – a craftsmanship you can see and feel. Smart, thoughtful innovation makes driving better, not more complicated. From the shape of the seats to the way the materials feel under your fingertips, every detail is designed to enhance the experience. In fact, 80% of survey respondents said thoughtful design that makes the driving experience better is extremely or very important during the car-buying process. These subtle touches elevate the everyday and make a car feel truly special.
The Joy of Driving, Reimagined
Driving should be more than a means to get from point A to point B. The most rewarding vehicles are often those that make every journey feel intentional and enjoyable. Responsive handling, intuitive controls and a cabin designed for comfort can transform even the most routine commute into a moment of enjoyment. When a car is engineered to connect driver and road, it brings back the pleasure of driving many have forgotten. For some, this feeling gets lost beneath features and digital overload, but it’s possible to rediscover harmony between driver and car – making every trip feel intentional and rewarding.
Confidence Comes Standard
Safety is more than a feature – it’s a foundation. Advanced safety technologies and strong crash-test ratings provide peace of mind for drivers and their families. With an industry-leading number of Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick+-awarded vehicles – including the Mazda3 Sedan and Hatchback, CX-30, CX-50, CX-50 Hybrid, CX-70, CX-70 PHEV, CX-90 and CX-90 PHEV – Mazda is committed to keeping safety at the forefront. Features like active safety systems, robust body structures and intelligent alerts help keep everyone protected, allowing drivers to focus on the road ahead.
Value That Surprises
Many shoppers believe a premium experience comes with a premium price tag. However, value is found in vehicles that deliver quality, innovation and comfort without the luxury markup. The materials, craftsmanship and driving dynamics often surprise those who expect to pay more for such an experience. It’s not just about what’s included, but how it all comes together to create a sense of satisfaction and pride in ownership. The result is a driving experience that feels special, accessible and built to last.
A New Standard for Everyday Driving
In a world that constantly demands so much, there is a kind of more that stands out. Not just in features, but in the feeling, the craftsmanship and the sheer joy of driving. This is the more of Mazda – a more that is intentional, meaningful and designed to enrich every journey.
When you’re ready for more from your next vehicle, visit Mazdausa.com.
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Mazda
(Feature Impact) Today’s wireless plans offer far more than connectivity alone, and choosing a provider involves more than simply comparing monthly rates and upfront phone costs. When balancing factors like nationwide network reliability and data performance needs against pricing, device compatibility and member benefits, finding the right fit for your needs and lifestyle can help simplify your daily routine while unlocking additional savings and experiences.
The experts at T-Mobile – which offers industry-leading, benefit-packed plans; exclusive experiences; and the largest 5G Advanced network voted No. 1 in network quality by J.D. Power – recommend evaluating several key factors before switching providers or upgrading plans:
Think About Your Lifestyle
If you work remotely, reliable high-speed connectivity is a must-have. For families, bundled savings or streaming services included as part of the plan may help seal the deal. Frequent travelers may prioritize international plan perks, in-flight Wi-Fi access or vacation discounts carriers can provide. As wireless providers expand their offerings beyond traditional phone service, look for the one that best complements how you live, work and travel, providing value across your everyday life.
Compare Pricing Beyond the Base Number
The lowest advertised price doesn’t always translate to the best value. Evaluate any taxes, fees, autopay requirements, device payment plans and subscriptions or bundled perks included with the plan you’re considering. A slightly higher monthly plan with more included benefits may save you money over time compared to paying separately for streaming services or delivery memberships that may be folded into the plan.
Keep Coverage Top of Mind
No matter how attractive a plan’s cost may look on paper, coverage remains one of the most important considerations when choosing a wireless provider. Before signing on with a provider, use a coverage map to check how strong the coverage is where you live, work and travel most often, particularly if you live in or frequently commute through rural areas.
Don’t Overlook Member Benefits
Wireless providers increasingly compete on customer perks. While rewards programs shouldn’t outweigh network reliability or pricing, they can add meaningful everyday value. In celebration of 10 years of the T-Mobile Tuesdays program, which provides weekly perks simply for being a member, the wireless provider is proclaiming June as “Member Month” with its biggest lineup of always-on benefits, limited-time perks, experiences and sweepstakes.
“From day one, T-Mobile Tuesdays has delivered meaningful value and relevant benefits that fit naturally into everyday life,” said Allan Samson, chief marketing officer, T-Mobile. “We’re always looking for new ways to give our customers more of what they love. Member Month is our biggest celebration of that commitment yet.”
The month-long initiative includes additional savings at Shell stations, free Dashpass by DoorDash for families juggling busy schedules, in-flight travel benefits when summer plans are in full swing and experiences that give members something to look forward to.
To compare plans and learn more about the value, perks and experiences that go beyond wireless, visit T-Mobile.com.
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