Friedreich's Ataxia Network (FAN) Inc

News

FA Clinic in Brisbane is now open. This is a gathering of specialists in the one place that are all well informed of FA. For more information on the clinic and how to book in click here.

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One of our major sponsors is Compass Expeditions.
So if you are looking for a holiday with a difference then follow the link.

Compass Expeditions

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Date: 21 - 22 May -

Photography Exhibition: Wesley Misson, Ann St, Brisbane Click on the image to read how sucessful this was.

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Documentary release:

Our documentary was released February 2010. This has been created to raise awareness. Click on the image to read more about it.

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Go the TAN

February I pushed the wheelchair the 3.8kms around 'the TAN' - the botanic gardens in Melbourne to raise funds for FA research..

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Mick's Book

Mick is a special mate and was my driver for an overland I did through South America. He and 3 of his mates rode motorbikes from London to Vladivostok and raised alot of money. This is the story of that ride. Click on the picture for more info.

What can be done?

Firstly in answer to this question it is all about how much you want to do. There is help available to FAer's for most of the symptoms or questions that you may have, and there is the support groups (like FAN), exercise SPORTING WHEELIES , Genetic counselling, speech therapy, technical aid, helpers, physio therapists, research groups and advisors and government health services. Alot of us have spent alot of time seeing different specialists and researching where the help is available. Below are a few addresses and phone numbers of those that may be able to help. I have also attached some scanned documents that I have acquired.

These documents are covered under copyright and may not be reproduced but are posted here for your reference.

How therapy can improve the quality of life.
More on therapy
Why do some people have Friedreich's Ataxia?
More on genetics

Go to to the Research page and read the latest on what drugs are being trialled and the research that is taking place.

Many FA sufferers will take Vitamin supplements, but we recommend to consult your GP or doctor before taking any or all of the vitamins listed below.

The following are found over the counter in a drug store, GNC, or similar retailers, and via the Internet:

  • Coenzyme Q-10 & Vitamin E: A research study in England seems to indicate that, taken in combination, these antioxidants can improve heart function in FRDA patients.
  • N-acetylcysteine (NAC): No scientific research has been conducted on NAC for FRDA patients. However, many patients feel that NAC improves the ataxia (motor skills).
  • Alpha Lipoic Acid
  • Evening Primrose Oil
  • Creatine
  • Selenium
  • Idebenone: This is currently being trialled in the USA. Go to Research to read more.

Queensland Genetics Education Program
Queensland Clinical Genetics Service
Royal Children's Hospital and Health Services Distric
Brisbane QLD 4029
Phone: 07 3636 1686
Fax: 07 3636 1987
Email: qcgs@health.qld.gov.au

The Ataxia Group
10 Winnchester House
Kennington Park
11 Cranmer Road
London SW9 6EJ
Email: office@ataxia.org.uk

This is a research unit, and they keep me up to date on the latest studies that are taking place in Europe and the UK. Their site http://www.ataxia.org.uk is very informative. Go to Research to find the latest developments.

Technical AId to the Disabled Qld Inc
48 Prospect Street
Bowen Hills QLD
Phone: 07 3216 1733
Email: kmberrytadq@one.net.au

Put simply, TADQ uses the skills and energy of technical volunteers to construct many types of custom designed equipment for people with disabilities. TADQ also provides technical advice and information to people with diabilities and those who care for them.

Independent Living Centre
Cnr, goring St & Cavendish Rd
Coorparoo QLD 4151
Phone: 07 3397 1224
Fax: 07 3394 1013
Email: ilcqld@gil.com.au
Web: Independent Living Centre

 

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