The Ataxia-Telangiectasia Society

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Classic Ataxia-Telangiectasia (A-T) is a condition which strikes at the heart of a family, often with no prior warning. Children born with the A-T gene appear healthy until they are around 2- 3. Soon their balance starts to fail, they become wobbly and need assistance to walk. Many are misdiagnosed as having cerebral palsy and their A-T diagnosis comes much later as their symptoms intensify.

While normal children are becoming more independent, A-T suffers need increasing help, many are confined to a wheelchair by the age of 10. By 12 they may need help to eat and their health and immunity are deteriorating. A-T sufferers are particularly prone to developing leukaemia and other cancers. It is quite unusual for a person with classic A-T to live beyond 26yrs of age.