How can FAF help you?
Due to the progressive nature of Friedreich’s Ataxia, most people with FA will eventually use walking aids and/or wheelchairs to mobilise.
Maintaining the ability to walk helps with general wellbeing, muscle power, spinal and bone health, gut health and mental health. Wheelchairs can help maintain independence and help manage fatigue.
Regular Physiotherapy, exercise sessions, equipment and support are essential help those with FA to remain active, upright and independent.
These all carry a financial cost. This is where Freddie’s Ataxia Fund can offer support
Activity Support
Therapy Sessions
Neurological conditions such as FA need specialist Physios, OTs, and SALTs to help with many of the symptoms of FA and the impact these have on your day-to-day life.
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If you are looking to work with a Physio, OT, or SALT on a private basis FAF can help with this. You may have access to these specialists through your local NHS service but we can help you fund additional services.
Physical Activity
Staying active with FA can be a challenge. Balance and coordination are key to many mainstream forms of exercise but with support and determination, you can achieve many things.
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In 2022 Martin joined Eilidh’s crew. Martin was a Jorvick electric-tricycle and meant she could join her family on cycling trips. Sadly he was stolen but following some fundraising, he was replaced by Pedro. Pedro has travelled widely and has provided lots of fun over the past couple of years. There are many adaptive cycling options available to hire or purchase.
Maintaining fitness and strength can help your physical and mental well-being. Gym memberships can help you build a community where you feel supported and safe. Personal trainers get to know clients on a 1-2-1 basis but cost can be prohibitive. FAF is here to help you navigate these costs and remove barriers you might feel are holding you back.
Talking Therapies
Living with a progressive condition like Friedreich’s Ataxia can be overwhelming both physically and emotionally.
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Access to talking therapies such as Psychology, or counselling can help you work through feelings of frustration, anxiety, isolation, grief, or depression. It is important to know that you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. These talking therapies can offer you emotional support and practical tools to help you manage the mental strain that often accompanies conditions like FA.
FAF is here to help you access the funds needed to pay for these treatments.
Those with FA can find their mobility varies day to day and fatigue can impact their ability to use a manual wheelchair for longer distances.
For this reason, powerchairs are often sought and purchased privately at a high financial cost for the user.
Use of technology such as computers, laptops, or tablets help with employment, education or hobbies. Isolation and reduced peer interaction is not uncommon, and trips or days out can help overcome feelings of loneliness.
Equipment Support
Mobility Aids
Whether it is sticks or a walking frame that help you keep your balance standing and walking we would love to help you stay upright with confidence.
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Now that Wilson is retired, she has a Schuchmann Marcy four-wheeled elbow-support walker, Wilbur. There are plenty of options to help you stay on your feet and help your confidence in the process.
When considering a walking aid, it is best to get professional advice on what is best suited to your needs. If the NHS does not supply your chosen walking aid, we can help with the cost.
Wheelchairs
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Alber E-motion power wheels were purchased and added to the chair to help with longer distances and to negotiate hills and ramps etc under her own steam.
In 2023 Sid joined the fleet. Sid is a Whill C2 Powerchair and he has transformed her life. Independence is a driver in all Eilidh does and Sid enables her to get out an about on her own.
Manual wheelchairs are usually available to FAers on the NHS but if you need financial support to add to yours or to purchase a powerchair FAF can help you do this
Not everyone with FA will use a wheelchair but for many, using one helps maintain independence and makes daily life easier to navigate.
Technology
Today’s world is technology-driven. Access to laptops, tablets, voice-activated technology, or softwear can revolutionise the lives of those living with FA.
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Fine-motor skills such as handwriting can be difficult and physically exhausting when your muscles don’t do what you want them to do. The use of laptops or computers allow Eilidh to continue with her education and future goals.
Every workplace and place of education relies on technology. Social media, blogs, and community connections are also central to many people’s lives. FAF is here to help you purchase the technology that will help you live your best life.
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