Some time ago I became aware that my kids had a schoolmate, Evie Read, who had been diagnosed with Ataxia-Telangiectasia (A-T). 

A-T is a rare, neurodegenerative condition that starts in early childhood and leads to severe disability and premature death. There is currently no cure and nothing can be done to halt its progression. Babies are born ‘normal’ and then slowly, from around the age of five, they start to lose their independence. A wheelchair is usually needed by the age of ten, and in many cases, a feeding tube is necessary by the age of twelve.

The immune systems of children who suffer from A-T are compromised and they often do not live beyond their teens. They usually die of  cancer or a severe respiratory infection.

A-T has been described as having the worst symptoms of four diseases: cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, cystic fibrosis and cancer. Studies show that children who are affected by this debilitating disease do not lose any of their mental capacity and over time they effectively become imprisoned in their deteriorating bodies.

The money I am raising for Action for A-T will be used to research A-T with a view to finding a cure or treatment that will delay its devastating effects. Emily and Toby Read are hopeful that, if a cure cannot be found in time to help Evie, that their efforts will help other children whose lives are affected by A-T. 

Please join me in whatever way you can in helping to fight this horrific disease.

I really appreciate all your support and thank you for your donation.