Ayça Şahin

@aycasahin.bsky.social

Koç University | Molecular Biology and Genetics BSc🎓 and now doing PhD in Neuroscience | SMA warrior 💪 and doing SMA research 🧬 | Future geneticist

Today is my 23rd dose of Spinraza (nusinersen)! 🥰 If I were in Germany or the US, I would likely be receiving the first dose of high-dose regimen (50 mg/5 mL). In my country, it is still not approved, and we are still waiting. We need high-dose Spinraza in Türkiye!

Bild

Twenty years ago, at the very first congress of my life, one of the leading SMA neurologists, Dr. Swoboda examined us. Back then, the only thing I could say was a tiny “hello”. Exactly 20 years later, as a Neuroscience PhD candidate, I presented my poster to her at the 5th Int. Sci. Congress on SMA!

Bild

As both a person living with SMA and a PhD candidate in Neuroscience, attending the 5th International Scientific Congress on Spinal Muscular Atrophy in Budapest, and presenting my poster there, has been a truly priceless experience.

Bild

Today marks the 22nd dose of Spinraza (nusinersen). Exactly 10 days ago, the EMA approved the high-dose of nusinersen. We are now hoping—and urging—our country to follow the EMA’s decision and approve and reimburse high-dose Spinraza as soon as possible.

Bild

I’m part of SMA in many ways — as a patient, a sister, and a PhD candidate. I'm in close contact with many SMA families and have long advocated for our rights and real awareness. I’m happy to be part of SMA Europe. I hope one day our slogan comes true — and no one is left behind.

SMA Europe@sma-europe.bsky.social · 9mo ago

Being a volunteer at SMA Europe means being part of a family built on care and trust. 💙 “No one is left behind.” — Ayça 🇹🇷 Thank you to our volunteers for your kindness and strength. Together, #WeAreOne 💫 #SMAEurope #Community #Inclusion #InternationalVolunteerDay

My giant gel and me. Hours of work, but it was worth it—the experiment worked! Sending lots of love to my trusty deltoid muscles; they've been putting in the work these past two days!

Wearing lab coat and gloves, holding a very big gel, dyes are apparent. Smiling.

Here on BlueSky! 🌟 I’m a PhD candidate in Neuroscience. Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is both my scientific focus and personal experience, as my brother and I both have SMA. Eager to connect with researchers across fields—from genetics and neurology to patient-centered science and beyond.