Gabriell, 26 years old, PA 

Hi all!

My name is Gabriell Snyder. I’m 26 years old and was the first case of PA diagnosed through newborn screening in the state of Massachusetts.  My first few years on this earth were far from easy. I was an anomaly. There wasn’t nearly as much knowledge on PA let alone how to handle a case that had never been seen before. I have zero enzyme activity, but from the outside I am very healthy. I went from only able to handle sugar water to being able to handle 50 grams of protein in 24 hours.

Growing up with PA all I ever wanted was to live an average life, to feel “normal”. My abundance of energy was directed into sports early. I fell in love with softball, ski team and dance most of all! My snacks always made me team favorite. Unlike my teammates that would eat healthy protein packed snacks before or after a game, I was there with my carb filled, sugar packed snacks! Candy, Gatorade, chips, french fries… repeat! Other girls pounded water on the bench while I had sugar filled Gatorade and a soda. Without the guidance and assistance of my parents counting protein, planning my meals, fighting, and advocating, Lord only knows where I’d be.

As I got older and naturally wanted more independence my parents gave me the reigns. It was now up to me to advocate, to live and to live healthily. I like to think I’ve done just that! I am living! Doctors didn’t expect to me live past the age of three; now look at me. 26 years old, and I am a proud homeowner who has found love and passion in all things farm related. three dogs, six cats, five mini goats, a slew of chickens, a lizard, and a rabbit…but who’s counting!! I have recently started my own cleaning business, AND this little farmer is officially engaged! PA can be terrifying, but I’m here to tell you there’s hope. It doesn’t have to be scary forever! Fight is in our genes! Sending so much love to all my fellow fighters and their families. Be strong and hang in there. It will get easier. I promise!