Friedreichs Ataxia Society Ireland

Progressive Disability from Childhood, Incorporating other Genetic Ataxias Established Since 1980 Charity Number 7076

Living with the Condition

A number of the symptoms of Friedreichs Ataxia can be treated. It is usual for a Neurologist to help in making the initial diagnosis and, during periods of review, to arrange suitable treatments and therapies. These would include cardiac assessments, orthopedic treatments, physiotherapy, occupational and speech therapy, counseling and the advice of social workers. The Friedreichs Ataxia Society may be contacted if you wish to avail of these services.

Support Available

The Society can provide help and support to the ataxia families in Ireland and to the medical people who serve these families through the following:

Providing information on all aspects of the condition
A network – the Society provides a forum in which suffers and families can meet.
Accommodation and Amenities – Friedreichs Ataxia Society Ireland helps some of its victims whose circumstances make it difficult for them to adapt to the restricted world of the disabled. The Society endeavours to provide them with the necessary facilities to overcome some of their physical problems, and make their lives more meaningful.
Financial Advice/Support – Advice is given in relation to financial and other benefits to which families are entitled.
Medical expertise - Apart from the help and information available from the Friedreichs Ataxia Society, the family doctor may wish to call upon the services of a number of other experts to help manage the condition.
Respite – the Society hosts an annual respite break for its Ataxia Members in Ireland and it also arranges individual Respite Breaks for its members and their carers.
Social Activities – The Society arranges social outings and opportunities for social interactions for its members.