Raising awareness for Spinocerebellar Atrophy
I’ll be running the Brynmeadows Caerphilly 10k on Sunday 14th May to raise money for The Brain Charity on behalf of my daughter Megan. In August of 2022 she was diagnosed with Cerebellar Atrophy. This long word is a condition where the cerebellum (a small area at the back of the brain) which controls movement and coordination, loses tissue/cells and becomes smaller. This rare condition prompted her consultant to refer her to the Ataxia and Movement Disorder Clinic. In February of this year, she was also diagnosed with Spinocerebellar Ataxia. This is a rare disorder that effects the brain and spinal cord. It also causes problems with mobility, balance and speech. Before her symptoms took hold, she used to take part in 5 and 10k’s regularly but unfortunately, this condition has stopped her from doing this - Her symptoms developed during lockdown and the most severe for her is balance and mobility. She has four walking aids/sticks to choose from to help her move around more confidently. Sadly, Spinocerebellar Ataxia is incurable but her symptoms are managed by steroids called Prednisolone.
- She still undergoing treatments/tests/procedures to find out what has caused her Cerebellar Atrophy and Spinocerebellar Ataxia but this may never be answered. Unfortunately, it might just be a scientific anomaly. Megan wouldn’t have been able to get through the hard times without her friends and family. The amount of support she continues to receive is incredible. She absolutely love raising awareness about this rare condition and really hopes it will inspire or encourage someone else to share their experience too.
The Brain Charity helps people affected by all forms of neurological condition to lead longer, healthier, happier lives. There are more than 600 conditions affecting the brain, spine and nervous system. We’re the only national charity providing practical help, emotional support and social activities for every single one. I’ll be raising money for The Brain Charity and any donations will help make an impact. Thank you in advance for your contribution to this cause which means so much to me.
The Brain Charity helps people affected by all forms of neurological condition to lead longer, healthier, happier lives. There are more than 600 conditions affecting the brain, spine and nervous system. We’re the only national charity providing practical help, emotional support and social activities for every single one. I’ll be raising money for The Brain Charity and any donations will help make an impact. Thank you in advance for your contribution to this cause which means so much to me.
Organiser
Vivian Walker
Organiser
Wales
The Brain Charity
Beneficiary