A Community Mobilized Toward Treatments The National Ataxia Foundation (NAF) is deeply committed to finding treatments and cures for Ataxia. Since its inception in 1957, NAF has strived to mobilize resources and support from the community to advance research efforts.  Sue Hagen, the Patient and Research Services Director, emphasizes the critical role of patient involvement...

Dr. Antonio Barbera, a former obstetrician-gynecologist living with multiple sclerosis, is prescribing an unconventional treatment for serious neurological diseases: ping pong.  His initiative, Table Tennis Connections’ NeuroPong program, launched in Fort Collins, Colorado, in 2021 and has since garnered attention nationwide. Meeting regularly at the Council Tree Covenant Church, participants engage in ping pong sessions...

Movement disorders like Ataxia, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s can significantly impact our daily lives, affecting everything from work to leisure activities.  Recognizing the importance of wise policymaking in supporting these individuals, the Movement Disorder Policy Coalition is dedicated to uniting advocates to inform policies that prioritize access to treatment and patient-centered care. One critical area of...

You can read Lily’s previous article HERE.After taking the new medicine called Skyclarys for Friedreich’s Ataxia for a little over one month, I can share some updates and observations. Like the condition itself, these meds affect each patient differently, and our experiences all vary. I haven’t noticed any changes to my balance and coordination, two...

Through the rhythm of music, we find a bridge that unites the discord of ataxia, guiding every step towards harmony and newfound freedom. Unknown The human body’s ability to move seamlessly is a gift often taken for granted. However, even simple movements can be difficult for those of us with movement problems like Ataxia. Ataxia refers to...

Have you ever wondered what is like to live a life knowing that as each day passes, you might be losing some physical or mental abilities you once had? Gain perspective on this experience with this question. Think about that, I mean, really think about what that would mean to you personally.  How would your life...

There are several institutional websites with great information on Ataxia.  For this article, I am using points from Mayo Clinic, National Ataxia Foundation, and Johns Hopkins Medicine.  I have personally attended appointments at Mayo Clinic, both in Minnesota and Arizona, and Johns Hopkins, so I am confident in using their information to form this article. ...

The National Ataxia Foundation states, “Ataxia is a degenerative disease of the nervous system. Many symptoms of Ataxia mimic those of being drunk, such as slurred speech, stumbling, falling, and incoordination. These symptoms are caused by damage to the cerebellum, the part of the brain that is responsible for coordinating movement. Ataxia treatment involves a...