Welcome

African Americans with Ataxia Association (AAwAA) is a nonprofit organization geared towards fighting Ataxia daily within the African American community. 1 in 50,000 individuals are affected with Ataxia. Ataxia is not a specific disease, but rather a symptom of many diverse conditions that affect the nervous system. It is progressive and varies by the type and subtype that one is diagnosed with. For many disadvantaged populations, people are often forgotten and have to find a way to provide for themselves. This is especially known in the Black or African American community. AAwAA was created for that very reason. Our main purpose is to assist Black families both nationally and internationally with Ataxia, various support services such as aid, assistance, linkage and coordination as well as referrals.

About Ataxia

Ataxia symptoms vary by person and type of Ataxia. Rate of progression varies as well. Symptoms may worsen slowly, over decades – or quickly, over mere months. Common symptoms of Ataxia are:

  • Lack of coordination
  • Slurred speech
  • Trouble eating and swallowing
  • Deterioration of fine motor skills
  • Difficulty walking
  • Gait abnormalities
  • Eye movement abnormalities
  • Tremors
  • Heart problems