Shano first noticed symptoms at just 13 years old. “That’s when I lost balance and my ability to walk,” she recalls. “Everything started from there, and then I’ve been challenging myself to do other things and what’s good for me.” That commitment to pushing forward has shaped her life ever since.
For those meeting her for the first time, Shano wants people to see beyond disability. “I just want to be a voice for anyone,” she says. “Don’t hide yourself.” Her message is one of visibility and confidence, especially for those who feel held back by physical conditions.
When Shano explains FA in her own words, she’s honest about how exhausting it can be. “It makes you tired,” she says. “When there’s something in your mind that you think you can’t do, it makes you more tired — but you just have to go through it and be stronger than your mindset.” She also notes that many challenges come from the condition itself, not people. “I’m very strong because I’ll be like, at least I’m doing something to stop it.”
Her proudest achievement? Simple, powerful perseverance. “I don’t give up. I keep going no matter what,” Shano says — a motto clearly reflected in her busy routine of swimming, oxygen therapy, physiologist visits and regular exercise.
If she could change one thing about society, she says it comes down to how people treat each other: “Attitude. Respect people no matter what and don’t look down at them.”
Shano credits her family and support worker as her strongest foundation. “They’re all behind me,” she says gratefully.
And on this International Day of People with Disability, her message is both empowering and beautifully direct: “No matter what, don’t hide yourself. Show yourself and fight for whatever you believe in.”
