Program
Upcoming Program
All About Your Heart
Ataxia Awareness Society (AAS) in collaboration with Back to Basic social welfare society Indore are going to organize a webinar “All About your Heart ❤️” by renowned speaker and Cardiologist Dr. Bharat Ravat .
Date : Saturday,29 Nov 2025
Time : 6.30 PM to 7.30 PM
The webinar will include –
- Management of cardiac issues speaker Dr.Bharat
- Motivational talk speaker Dr.Bharat
- Dietary guidelines for healthy heart by Nutritionist, Dr. Poonam Vishal Jwell .
To Join the webinar kindly send a message to D.r. Ponam (9893705957)
Check out the latest events like :
Intra College Quiz Competition and Lecture at Terna Physiotherapy College, Navi Mumbai, Impact of positive thinking by Dr Gurmeet Narang, Pune Awareness program (Sept 2023) etc.. on YouTube through link provided below;
https://www.youtube.com/ataxiaawarenesssociety
To explore previous events of AAS, visit ‘Events So Far’ section.
Event's So Far
Anger Management WEBINAR
Date:January 16,2025
Event Place: Google Meet
Time: 6
:30 to 7:30 PM
The Ataxia Awareness Society (AAS) successfully organized a webinar on ‘Anger Management’ on 16th January via Google Meet. The session was conducted by Mr. Kedar Latke, and the guest speaker was renowned psychologist Mrs. Mrunal Joshi.
The webinar aimed to provide Ataxia patients with valuable insights into understanding and managing anger effectively. Read More
Race For 7 marathon
Date:February 23,2025
Event place: Mumbai,Banglore,Delhi,Pune,Jaipur,Hyderabad
Time: 6
:30 to 8.30 AM
REPORT
RF-7
On the occasion of world Rare Disease Day which is celebrated on 28th February, the Organization for Rare Diseases India (ORDI) - conducted 10 th edition of 'Race for 7' marathon on 23rd of February 2025. Purpose of arranging the Event was to raise awareness about rare diseases and to empower patients and their families in India. The event,' Race for 7 ', symbolized the challenges and resilience of those affected by 7,000 rare diseases, uniting 7,000 participants in a 7-kilometer run. This year the marathon was simultaneously conducted in 21 cities of India. The Ataxia Awareness Society (AAS) actively participated from over six cities - Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Mumbai, and Jaipur. The dedicated Ataxia warriors their caregivers and volunteers played a pivotal role in raising awareness about ataxia . In addition to their athletic participation, AAS members distributed ataxia pamphlets, effectively educating the public about the Ataxia and its impact on individuals. Their efforts not only spread awareness but also strengthened the rare disease community, fostering hope, inclusion, and support for those affected.
GENETIC COUNSELLING IN ATAXIA - AN INTRODCTIO
Date:March 15,2025
Event Place: Google Meet
Time: 4 . 00 to 5 . 00 PM
REPORT
On the occasion of the 7th Foundation Day of Ataxia Awareness Society(AAS) , a highly informative webinar on "Genetic Counselling in Ataxia – An Introduction" was conducted on Saturday, 15 March 2025, by AAS in collaboration with Genetic Counselling India. The session aimed to spread awareness about the role of genetics in Ataxia, the importance of genetic counselling, and the current spectrum of genetic ataxias in India.
The webinar commenced with a warm welcome note by Dr. Apoorva Pauranik,a Senior Neurologist and Patron of AAS. He emphasized the importance of role of genetic awareness and genetic counselling in managing Ataxia effectively.
Expert Talks:
Dr. Gayatri Iyer (Senior Genetic Counselor, TIGS, Bengaluru, Consultant at Genetic Counselling India) spoke on "Genetics of Ataxia and the Need for Genetic Counseling". She explained the role of genes in Ataxia and how genetic mutations contribute to the disease. She emphasised on the the significance of genetic testing and counseling in family planning and disease management.
Dr. Mohammed Faruq (Principal Scientist, CSIR-IGIB, Delhi) Presented on "Spectrum of Genetic Ataxia in India". He discussed the various types of genetic Ataxia prevalent in India and their clinical presentations. Shared insights on ongoing research, advancements in genetic diagnosis, and the potential for future treatments.
The webinar ended with an interactive Q&A session, where participants raised important questions about genetic testing, inheritance patterns, and available diagnostic facilities in India. The speakers provided insightful responses, emphasizing the critical role of early diagnosis and genetic counseling.
AAS extends special thanks to Dr. Poonam Jwell (AAS Executive Member), Mr. Manan Gupta (AAS Volunteer), and Mr. Aditya (Co-founder, Genetic Counselling India) for their efforts in organizing and conducting the webinar.
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GENETIC COUNSELLING FOR SPINOCEREBELLAR ATAXIA TYPE 1,2,3 & 12
Date: June , 28 , 2025
Event Place: Google Meet
Time: 5.00 to 6.00 PM
The Ataxia Awareness Society (AAS), in collaboration with Genetic Counselling India (GCIL), successfully organized the second webinar in its ongoing series on Genetic Counselling for Ataxia. The focus of this session was on Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) Types 1, 2, 3, and 12.
The objective of the webinar was to raise awareness and provide up-to-date knowledge on the genetic and clinical aspects of these common SCA types, aimed at patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and the general public.
Opening Remarks:
The session began with a warm welcome address by Dr. Apoorva Pauranik, Patron of AAS, who highlighted the importance of genetic counselling in rare neurological disorders like Ataxia and emphasized the role of continued education and awareness.
Expert Presentations:
1) Dr. Gayatri Iyer
Senior Genetic Counselor, GCIL & Scientist, TIGS Bengaluru
Topic: Genetics and Molecular Diagnosis in SCA Types 1, 2, 3 & 12
Dr. Iyer provided a comprehensive overview of the inheritance patterns, genetic mutations involved in SCAs, available diagnostic tests, and how genetic counselling can support patients and their families in understanding and managing these conditions. She emphasized the value of early genetic diagnosis in guiding treatment and reproductive decisions.
2) Dr. Pramod Pal
Professor of Neurology, NIMHANS, Bengaluru
Topic: Clinical Features, Challenges, and Management of SCA Types 1, 2, 3 & 12
Dr. Pal offered clinical insights into the progression, symptoms, and variability of SCA subtypes. He discussed challenges in diagnosis, the importance of multidisciplinary care, and current options for symptomatic treatment and rehabilitation. Patient video clips were shared to illustrate the real-life impact of the condition.
The webinar concluded with an interactive Question & Answer session.
A heartfelt vote of thanks was extended by Dr. Jyotsna bhoraskar (Joint secretary, AAS) to both speakers for their enriching presentations, and to all attendees for their active participation. Special appreciation was given to Dr. A. Pauranik for his continued guidance and encouragement.
All About your Heart
Date: November , 28 , 2025
Event Place: Google Meet
Time: 6.30 to 7.30 PM
Ataxia Awareness Society (AAS), in collaboration with Back to Basics Social Welfare Society, Indore, organised a webinar titled “All About Your Heart” on 29 November 2025. The webinar was conducted to help Ataxia patients maintain better heart health through awareness, guidance, and motivation.
The session featured two eminent speakers:
1. Dr. Bharat Rawat
Senior Cardiologist, Medanta Hospital, Indore
Lifestyle Guide and Motivational Speaker
Topic: Heart Health and Lifestyle Management
Dr. Bharat Rawat, a senior cardiologist from Indore, interacted with heart patients and high blood pressure patients from across India. During the session, he guided participants on how to recognise early warning signs and adopt positive lifestyle changes. He advised participants to:
Maintain strict and regular monitoring of blood pressure
Immediately consult a doctor in case of chest pain
Take prescribed medications regularly
Include physical activities such as Surya Namaskar, strength training, or walking according to individual capacity
Engage in physical exercise for at least five hours per week
Practice pranayama to maintain mental peace
Follow proper time management to simplify daily life
Develop the habit of reading good books and reduce the use of plastic
Stay stress-free by spending time with family, friends, hobbies, and pets
2. Dr. Poonam Vishal Jwell
Nutritionist
General Secretary, IDA – MP Chapter
Topic: Dietary Guidelines for a Healthy Heart
Dr. Poonam Vishal Jwell highlighted the importance of proper nutrition for heart patients. She emphasized:
Eating an early dinner
Maintaining a balanced intake of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats
Reducing the use of oil, sugar, and salt in daily diet
Ensuring each meal includes salads and protein-rich foods
Using healthy fats and strictly avoiding packed, fried, and processed foods
Preferring home-cooked traditional Indian meals prepared with less oil and salt
Maintaining adequate hydration throughout the day
She strongly advised complete avoidance of sweets, sugary beverages, alcohol, and smoking.
While explaining the importance of mindful eating, she stated that controlling one’s mind helps in choosing foods that are truly beneficial for overall health. She encouraged participants to stay attentive to their body’s needs and follow a balanced diet.
For maintaining positive energy and mental well-being, she recommended regular meditation and dedicating time to personal hobbies.
At the end of the session, an interactive question-and-answer session was held.
Ms. Swasti Wagh, Director, AAS, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the speakers and all participants for making the webinar a success.
International Ataxia Awareness Day
Date:September 25,2024
Event Place: Terna Medical College, Navi Mumbai
Time: 1
:30 to 2:30 PM
25th September is celebrated as International Ataxia Awareness Day. On this occasion 'Ataxia Awareness Society'organised an awareness titled 'Intra-college Quiz Competition and Lecture.' event in collaboration with the 'Neurophysiotherapy Department of Terna Physiotherapy College, Navi Mumbai' on 25 Sept 2024. Mr. Kedar Latke, who is our AAS member from Mumbai and himself is a patient of ataxia attended the event as AAS representative.
In the quiz competition, The certificates and prizes were awarded to the winners by Mr. Latke. The event was followed by a talk on 'Physiotherapy Management in Spinocerebellar Ataxia'Delivered by Dr Ankita Over 100 participants, students and faculty members, actively participated in the event.
The Impact of Positive Thinking
Date:July 20th,2024
Event Place: Online on Google Meet
Time: 5 to 6 PM
AAS arranged a webinar on "The Impact of Positive Thinking", conducted by Dr. Gurmeet Narang, renowned as the Man of Happiness. Dr. Narang is an industrialist, humanitarian, motivational speaker, author, motivational speaker and also happiness teacher .
Dr. Gurmeet Narang began the session by accenting the importance of positive thinking in daily life. He shared his personal journey and how adopting a positive outlook transformed his life and career.
He clarified that positive thinking does not mean ignoring reality but approaching life's challenges with a constructive mindset.
At the same time it is very necessary to Acknowledge and confronting negative thoughts instead of suppressing them.
The participants got highly motivated after the webinar and learn about the benefits of maintaining a positive mindset.
AAS 6th Foundashion Day
Date:March 16,2024
Event Place: Sri Aurobindo Institute of Medical Sciences
Time: 2 to 4 PM
United in strength and spirit, we marked our 6th Foundation Day with a beacon of hope at the Ataxia Awareness Event, in heartfelt collaboration with Shri Arbindo Institute of Medical Science.
Immensely grateful for the time and efforts of the esteemed doctors who graced the event by enlightening lectures, and to students for their amazing participation.
Together, we illuminate the path towards understanding, support, and a brighter future for all affected by Ataxia.
Thank you Dr. Subhash Garg and Dr. Nirnay Keshree and the hardworking team of SAIMS to make this event a success.
Ataxia Awareness Seminar In Pune
Date: September 30,2023,Saturday
Event Platform: Auditorium of Sancheti Hospital
Time: 2 to 5 P.M.
The Ataxia Awareness Society (AAS), Indore, in collaboration with Sancheti College of Physiotherapy, organized an Ataxia Awareness Seminar on September 30, 2023, at the auditorium of Sancheti Hospital to commemorate International Ataxia Awareness Day (IAAD).
Ms. Swasti Wagh, President of the Ataxia Awareness Society, welcomed attendees at the beginning of the seminar. The first session featured Dr. Ichaporia, a Senior Neurologist from Pune, who provided valuable information on the symptoms, causes, and types of Ataxia. Despite its rarity and lack of a cure, Dr. Ichaporia emphasized that proper counseling could significantly improve the quality of life for Ataxia patients.
Dr. Radha Bhattad, Head of the Department at Sancheti College of Physiotherapy, followed with insights on how physiotherapy can help control the progression of Ataxia.
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Motivational Session With Alma Chopra
Date: October 22,2023,Sunday
Event Platform: Zoom
Time: 4 to 5 P.M.
The Ataxia Awareness Society recently hosted a compelling online motivational talk featuring Alma Chopra, an inspiring ataxia warrior. Alma shared her personal journey, highlighting challenges faced and victories achieved while living with ataxia. Her motivational discourse focused on the importance of a positive mindset in navigating life with a rare condition.
Participants gained valuable insights into overcoming adversity and fostering a sense of community and support. Alma's empowering message aimed to inspire not only those directly affected by ataxia but also to raise awareness among the wider audience about the strength and determination of individuals facing such challenges.
Republic Day - 2023 Celebration
Date: January 26, 2023, Thursday
Event Platform: via Zoom Video Conference
Time: 06:00 P.M.
AAS celebrated 24th republic Day with ataxia patients from all over India on 26 January 2023. The program was conducted on the zoom platform. The program started with our national anthem.
A small quiz on Republic Day was carried out by Shri Dashoriiya. After this ataxia patients give their presentations of Patriotic songs and poem etc.
The program ended up with vote of thanks by Swasti Wagh.
AAS 4th Foundation Day
Date: April 6,2022,Wednesday
Event Platform: SGSITS College, Indore
Time: 11:50 A.M.
AAS held its 4th Foundation Day celebration in association with Biomedical Engineering Department ’ with the objective to discuss ‘The Role of Technology in Rehabilitation of Ataxia Patients’ and to create awareness about Ataxia among engineering students.
The event started with Saraswati Vandana by Ms Abha Jaiswal and lighting of lamp by chief guests of the event.
Mr Prateek Vyas, (event anchor) gave introduction the chief guest Dr. Apoorva Pauranik .Dr R.K. Saxena (Director - SGSITS) said that biomedical field plays an important role in the development of assistive devices for disabled persons.
Dr Prashant Bansod (HOD – Biomedical), told that ataxia patients face various problems in their day-to-day life, he assured that the department will develop assistive devices with the help of technology which will be helpful for ataxia patients. Read More
Blood Sample Collection for DNA Testing
Date:August 25, 2022, Thursday
Event Platform: Balda Colony, Indore.
Time: 12:00 P.M.
Genetic ataxias are of different types .The type of genet ic ataxia can be known only by genetic testing .Although genetic tests are available only for some types of ataxias ,Ataxia Awareness Society arranged a blood sample collection camp for DNA test at Balda Colony,Indore.Read More
A camp for distribution of Disability Certificate
Date: August 27, 2022, Saturday
Event Platform: Hukumchand Poly clinic, Indore
Time: 11:00 A.M.
A disability certificate or a PwD certificate holds significant importance for persons with disabilities. It allows disabled individuals to avail the benefits, facilities and concessions offered under different government schemes.
The medical boards of respective states and districts issue a disability certificate. The board generally comprises a Chief Medical Officer or a Sub-Divisional Medical Officer in the district and another expert in the specified field such as ENT Surgeon, Ophthalmic Surgeon Read More
National Ataxia Summit
Date: october 8th-9th, 2022, Sat-sun
Event Platform: Akshat Garden, Indore
Time: Complete Two Days
"Ataxia Awareness Society (AAS) " of Indore organized a 'National Ataxia Summit' . The founder of the organization, Swasti Wagh, told that Ataxia patients and their caretakers from different states of the country participated in the summit. Various sessions like physiotherapy, panel discussion, speech therapy, motivational talk, meditation, musical evening Read More
Occupational Therapy Webinar
Date: April 18, 2021, Sunday
Event Platform: via Zoom Video Conferance
Time: 05:00 P.M.
Generally all Ataxia patients find problems in doing day to day activities like buttoning, brushing, eating ,writing etc. due to incoordination and imbalance. These problems could be minimized to some extent with the help of occupational therapist. Therefore AAS arranged an interactive occupational therapy webinat on 18th April 2021.In the webinar occupational therapist Dr. Yashswini ,delivered a talk on how the performance of day to day activities can be improved by doing simple modification and also demonstrated some simple exercises and techniques to control hand tremors while writing and doing other activities. Read More
Speech Therapy Webinar on AAC
Date: January 03,2021,Sunday
Event Platform: Zoom Platform
Time: 4:00 P.M.
With the progress of the disease Ataxia patient often suffer from speech and swallowing problems. Because of slurred speech they are unable to communicate with others.In severe cases even their care takers are unable to understand them.A webinar was arranged by AAS to guide the ataxia patients how to cope up with these problems.The webinar was arranged
Spech therapy doctors,Dr.Mansi Karnad and Dr. Tanvi Sanghvi of All India Inst. Of Speech and HearingRead More
Dietary Awreness For Ataxia With Other Comorbidities
Date: May 09,2021,sunday
Event Platform: Zoom Platform
Time: 4 to 5 P.M.
AAS arranged a webinar on ‘Dietary Awreness For Ataxia With Other Comorbidities’ .The webinar was held virtually .Mrs. Poonam Vishal Jwell .Sr. Nutritionist and Dietitian and Secretary IDA (M.P. Chapter) spoke on essential diet for Ataxia patients to cope up with their muscle weakness and associated diseases like diabeties,hypertension,heart problem etc. She also suggested healthy diet tips in this pandemic period and which diet can help to overcome extra weakness and fatigue after corona.
3rd Foundation Day Celebration
Date: March 14,April
04,2021,Sunday
Event Platform: Zoom Platform
Time: 4 to 6 P.M.
With the successful completion of three years, Ataxia Awareness Society (AAS) celebrated its third foundation day ceremony .The event was held virtually on zoom platform. Participants from all over the India joined the event.Some delegates from FARA also attended the event.The program started with Saraswati Vandana by Mrs. Sudha Wagh . A welcome note was given by the President of AAS Ms. Swasti Wagh. After this shri Narendra Edlabadakar (Secretary of AAS ) gave a presentation about the activtes carried out by AAS in year 2020-21 and future programs of AAS.Read More
Webinar on Ataxia Awareness
Date: December 18,2021,saturday
Event Platform: Zoom Platform
Time: 11:50 A.M.
AAS organised a webinar on ataxia - a rare neuromuscular degenerative condition . The webinar was held virtually on zoom platform. More than 150 particcipants joined the webinar.
The introduction of AAS was given by Manan Gupta (AAS volunteer) through ppt presentation. Then Ms. Archi Gupta (volunteer) gave introduction of AAS patron Dr. Apoorva Pauranik and AAS president Ms. Swasti Wagh.
Dr. S.H. Subromony (M.D. neuromuscular Neurology, professor at University of Florida) was our guest speaker. He shared information about ataxia, it's different types and recent developments in Ataxia research.He discussed about genetic and non-genetic causes of ataxia. He also talked about the genes responsible for most common autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxia.
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Physiotherapy Webinar
Date: September 27,October 11,2020,Sunday
Event Platform: Zoom Platform
Time: 5 to 6 P.M.
A virtual workshop on “Balancing Exercises for Ataxia Patients” was organized by Ataxia Awareness Society (AAS) in association with Neuro physiotherapist Dr. Bhavesh Choudhary. The Camp received an overwhelming response as Ataxia patients from entire Country attended in large number to learn Balancing Exercises and clear their doubts in second session.Dr.Bhavesh Choudhary, Neuro-physiotherapist demonstrated variety of body balancing exercises for ataxia patients. Read More
Balda , Medical Check Up Camp
Date: January 11,2020,Saturday
Event Platform: Balda colony, near Mhow Naka, Indore
Time: 12 to 3 PM.
It is the objective of AAS to help Ataxia patients .Recently we came to know that there are few families in which 3 to 4 members in each family have problems that resemble Ataxia. So, AAS team visited at the location and found out that these people are completely unaware of problems like Ataxia. So AAS decided to organise a camp in Balda colony, near Mhow Naka, Indore on 11th January 2020.
3In this camp, Dr. Apoorva Pauranik examined each patient thoroughly and diagnosed them. Many of them were found to have Ataxia. Physiotherapist Dr. Bhavesh Chaudhari and Dr. Deep
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Speech Therapy and Donation
Date: January 12,2019,Saturday
Event Platform: Pauranik Neuro Center,Indore
Time: 2:30 to 5 PM.
A Camp on Speech therapy was organized by Ataxia Awareness Society (AAS). The event was organized to give in depth knowledge about speech to ataxia patients. The camp received an overwhelming response as ataxia patients from Indore as well as nearby places like Khargone, Mhow attend in large number to learn Speech therapy. Read More
First Foundation Day
Date: April 7,2019,Sunday
Event Platform: IPS Academy, Indore
Time: 3 to 6 PM
Ataxia Awareness Society (AAS) organized a Foundation Day Celebration in collaboration with ICSR and IPS Academy, Indore. The event was organized to provide in depth knowledge about Ataxia to all concerned persons.
The event initiated with the Welcome Speech which was given by Ms. Swasti Wagh (President of AAS). Afterwards, the event was followed by Saraswati Vandna by lighting the lamp ceremony which was done by the Chief Guest.
Ataxia Awareness Society gave the short introduction of all the chief Guests present there that is Dr. Anil Bhandari. (Founder of NGO('Sahayata')
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Patient Get To Gather
Date: October 13,2019,Sunday
Event Platform: Pauranik Neuro Centre,Indore
Time: 12 to 3 P.M.
The aim was to develop a friendly relationship among patients and caregivers, providing a platform to share their challenges.
The event commenced with a captivating song performed by AAS members Mrs. Sudha Wagh and Mrs. Jyoti Joshi. Patients were encouraged to showcase their abilities, receiving gifts for their participation, enhancing confidence, and overcoming hesitations.
Health concerns were openly discussed with Dr. Apoorva Pauranik, while specialists - Physiotherapist Dr. Bhavesh Chaudhari, Occupational Therapist Dr. Garg, and Speech Therapist Dr. Vibhuti Birthare - enlightened attendees on leading fulfilling lives despite Ataxia-related challenges.Read More
Speech Therapy Webinar series By Dr.Vibhuti
Date: May 22nd to 18th June
Event Platform: Google Meet
Time: Afternoon
Slurred speech is very common problem among ataxia patients. Ataxia Awareness Society (AAS) organized virtual workshops on Speech Therapy. The 5 sessions of this webinar (on May 22nd ,24th ,28th June 8th and 18th 2020) were conducted with the help of ZOOM APP & Google Meet APP.
Speech & Language Therapist Dr. Vibhuti Birthare demonstrates variety of pronunciations and Speech Therapy Exercises to ataxia patients. Everybody actively participated in the webinar by performing exercise instructed by Dr. Vibhuti. The basic objective behind organizing this meeting was to help them, so that they can speak with clarity and as well as audible to others.
International Ataxia Awareness Day
Date:September 26,2021
Event Platform: Zoom App
Time: 4:00 PM
AAS celebrated international ataxia day on Sunday ,26th September 2021 at 4 PM on zoom app. Renowned social worker Padmashree Janak palta was chief guest of the event.
Participants from all over India attendes the event. The president of AAS, Ms. Swasti Wagh, along with entire AAS team were present in the event. The main object of this event was to create awareness about ataxia in the society and encourage ataxia worriers.
The event was started with saraswati vandana sung by Smt. sudha wagh .Then president of AAS ,Swasti Wagh, delivered a welcome note to all the participents in the webinar. AAS patron Dr.Apoorva Pauranik also gave an inspirational speech .
Mrs. Jagruti Upasini gave brief introduction of chief guest and her achievement in various fields.
Our chief guest Smt.Janak Palta, gave very inspirational and motivational speech. The key point was ‘हम मरेंगे कैसे यह हमें नहीं मालूम पर जीना कैसा यह हमारे हाथ में है।
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