According to John Hopkin’s Medicine, Friedreich’s Ataxia (FA) is a rare inherited degenerative disease. FA primarily damages the spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and the cerebellum portion of the brain. The conditions tend to develop in children and teens and gradually worsen over time.
It is a recessive genetic disorder, as a result of a defect in a gene called FXN. To clarify, in order to develop the condition, you would need to inherit a copy of the gene defect from both parents.
There is currently no cure for this debilitating, life-shortening disorder. That being said, The Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA) is trying to find one. Similarly, for the month of February, we’re giving all customers of Frame USA a chance to help them by making FARA our February Charity of the Month.
History of Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance
A group of patient families and three of the world’s leading FA scientists formed FARA In 1998. It was an all-volunteer organization until late 2005. Over the years FARA’s leadership and numerous patient families and friends have raised funds to support the research.
While there is no current cure, knowing the specific symptoms and what causes the disorder allows for a more targeted treatment plan and aligns us much closer with a cure.
Mission of FARA
FARA’s mission is to marshal and focus the resources and relationships needed to cure FA by raising funds for research, promoting public awareness, and aligning scientists, patients, clinicians, government agencies, pharmaceutical companies, and other organizations dedicated to curing FA and related diseases.
https://www.curefa.org/mission
For a bit more understanding in life with FA, check out this video from FARA. For more information about how you can help, head on over to their website .
In conclusion, In February, Frame USA will be donating $0.75 from every framing order to Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance. Meanwhile, if you are interested in helping Claire and Jake Juip, well as other families affected by FA, feel free to add additional funds at checkout!
