Ataxia-Telangiectasia is a rare and complex genetic disease that causes severe disability in young children and early death. The A-T Society exists to improve the quality of life of these children and their families by offering support services, improving clinical management and funding medical research.

On the 12th May 2007, thanks to generous support by the Barbara Ward Children's Foundation, the Society held its national Family Day in Nottingham. This annual event is where the children have fun and parents learn from professionals expert in A-T and from each other, providing mutual support by swapping stories and sharing experiences.

Over 140 people attended, including 31 children, 20 of whom had A-T (the other 11 being their siblings.) In the morning, while their parents attended talks and workshops, the children laughed at the antics of ‘Cheeky Charlie’, indulged in art and craft activities and after having their faces painted, turned into tigers and butterflies. Following lunch they decamped to Twinlakes Park, Melton Mowbray and dodged the showers to enjoy the various rides, play zones and furry animals on offer.