Ataxia is the term used to describe a group of neurological conditions that gradually attack the brain. There are many different types of ataxia, with different causes and symptoms, most of which are progressive.

I was recently made aware of ataxia through my girlfriend. Her sister, Helen, has Freidreich's Ataxia, this is a hereditary disease caused by a defective gene passed on through generations. Its major neurological symptoms include muscle weakness and a loss of balance and co-ordination.

Helen was first diagnosed at the age of 14, her balance and co-ordination continued to decline over time and muscles in her legs become weak, making it increasingly difficult to walk. Helen is now 24, and a full-time wheelchair user.

There is currently no cure for FA, but there are treatments for its cardiac symptoms and ways to manage ataxia and muscle weakness. As FA doesn't affect mental functions, many people lead active, rewarding lives.

In 2009 only 7% of the public had heard of ataxia, in 2014 this rose to 9%!  Although progress is being made, I hope that fundraising for Ataxia UK will not only help to find treatments and cures but to raise further awareness of ataxia!

If you would like to find out further information about ataxia please follow the link below.
https://www.ataxia.org.uk

Please give generously! Thank you.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.