Hello, my name is Tallulah Clark, I am 23 years old- thank you so much for taking the time to find out more about my £20,000 Challenge to raise funds specifically to fund research into my particular type of Ataxia which is a rare form called type AOA2.  I started investigations at the Children's Hospital, in Bristol, at age 11, and over the following 6 years I was seen by numerous Specialists. I was referred to Neurology and was finally diagnosed
in May 2017.  I was given the news that I had an extremely rare form of Ataxia, affecting only 2 in a million people, I am very proud to say that despite extreme physical and emotional challenges I completed my
degree through Sheffield University in “Education, Culture and Childhood”. My dissertation exploring the lives of those living with rare neurological conditions gained widespread  recognition. . Through numerous events I have now raised thousands of pounds with the help of my family and friends. These include my first £10,000 challenge back in 2018, my mum Olivia and family taking part in a “Tough Mudder” my dad Phil taking part in the “Cotswold Triathlon” in May 2019 plus lots of other events including a golf competition. Since my early fundraising events, my life with Ataxia has become ever more challenging, I am fighting this condition every day.
I stumble and trip over and experience panic attacks as I fear falling or making myself look stupid, I have severe
fatigue as my body is in a permanent state of "fight or flight” so need to rest a lot, and my signature has been reduced to a simple TC, as my writing has deteriorated rapidly.  I want EVERYONE to know about Ataxia, to get it on everyone's radar so at least they know the signs. I try and stay as strong as possible with the support of my mum Olivia, my dad Phil, my lovely sister Maddie and my family and close friends. I do not  want Ataxia  to beat me nor define me. I want to fight it and do all I can to raise awareness but more importantly raise funds
for research, as my dearest wish is that sometime in the not-too-distant future a cure will be found. Please support me and my challenge Thank you very much T xx