About Us

 Ataxia is the umbrella term for a group of neurological disorders affecting the nervous system. 

This can lead to damage of the cerebellum -  the part of the brain that is responsible for coordinating movement and may result in difficulties with speech, eye movement, hearing and dexterity. We are the only national organisation that supports people with all types of ataxias. We strive to enhance the quality of life for every person living with an ataxia and their families.

We are acutely aware of the problems  affecting the day-to-day lives of people with ataxia and we understand the emotional impact a diagnosis can have.

Ataxia can be either genetic or aquired.

We have established a strong team of volunteers comprising of the Board and Trustees,Voluntary Committee, Regional Support Team (RST) and Ataxia Support Team (AST) providing support to members. The AST consists of a Coordinator and committee members, all have years of experience working with Ataxia and generously offered to help.

We strongly believe in
1. Ethical Fundraising,
2. Annual & Financial Reporting
3. Governance.

We are committed to providing our accounts and other relevant information on our website where the public can see where their donations are going.

We advocate strongly on disability issues, Ataxia knows no borders and effects most parts of the body while the intellect is unaffected, with the nature of  Ataxia, we experience many different effects and types of disabilities over time, not just one, in the genetic form it is a rare, progressive, degenerative, neurological condition.

We have provided membership forms below for

1. Members

2. Family of People with Ataxia

3. Friends of AFI/Volunteers.

Membership does not imply that you cannot be a member of any other organisation, we would encourage you to download the forms available for download, or contact us and we will post them to you, return the completed and signed form to AFI and please share as much as possible with your friends with ataxia and or people who would also be interested in being part of AFI.

We welcome donations and anyone willing to participate in fundraising, we have created a Fundraising Pack and Application forms are available, please call 087 361 6616 or email info@afi.ie and we will send them to you.