Friedreich’s Ataxia Fundraiser

What is Friedreich’s Ataxia ?

 

Friedreich's ataxia is a rare, inherited disease. It damages the spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and the cerebellum part of the brain. It also leads to heart problems. This disease tends to develop in children and teens. It slowly gets worse over time. Unsteady, awkward movements and a loss of feeling due to nerve injury develop as the disease gets worse.

 

Only the Brave Music Video

A local video has been created featuring the song, ‘Only the Brave,’ which has been recorded by local artists Jody Raffoul, Jeff Burrows, and the Saints. Also, we are grateful to Jay Crowley for his participation in the creation of this heartfelt song. This music video is to give a voice to the FA community and show the world the strength behind the struggle.  Its purpose is to also make the name of this rare disease more widely recognized. When the name of a disease becomes known, understanding becomes the path to an important connection to those who walk the same journey and those who want to help support them. The music video will not only serve as an educational tool that can be shared across various platforms, including local schools, healthcare centers, and community organizations, but our intention will then include fundraising efforts to help support local families in Windsor-Essex County and the surrounding areas that are living with FA. While creating this project, we have become aware of a surprising number of individuals currently living in Windsor-Essex County that have been diagnosed with Friedreich’s Ataxia, and we are reaching out to identify and support as many as we can.

 

Funds Raised

 

The funds raised through Friedreich’s Fighters will be used to directly support individuals and families in our area affected by Friedreich’s Ataxia in meaningful and life-changing ways. Our efforts will support our friends in the following ways:

Medical Assistance (not fully covered by insurance)

Specialist Care and Appointments, Therapies, Medical Supplies, Home Health Support, Wellness & Preventative Care.

Transportation Support

Accessible Transit Subsidies, Vehicle Adaptations, Mileage/Gas Assistance, Public Transit Passes, Recreational Transportation

           Assistive Devices & Equipment

Mobility Aids, Home Accessibility Renovations, Computer and Technology Supports, Large Screens & Vision Aids, Hearing Devices, Communication Devices, Daily Living Aids, Recreational & Lifestyle Aids.

Financial Assistance (help ease financial stress)

Household Bills, Groceries and Nutrition, Housing Costs, Home Repairs & Maintenance, Childcare & Family Support, Emergency Funds, Single-Parent/Income Relief.

 

Dare to Dream

Any experience that sparks joy, creates lasting memories, and reminds fighters and their families that life is about more than challenges- it’s about moments of inspiration, passion, and fun!

 

Every contribution, whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, fuels the mission of turning compassion into action and ensuring that no fighter needs to face the journey alone.

If you would like to support our mission and contribute a financial donation, we are inviting you to send an E-transfer to [e-mail] or write a cheque made payable to Friedreich’s Fighters.

If you know anyone who has been diagnosed with Friedreich’s Ataxia please contact: [e-mail]