Spinal Muscular Atrophy Support UK

The Jennifer Trust is a national support group for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). It provides information, support and advice, welfare grants for specialist equipment, information for families and healthcare professionals, bereavement support and research into both practical management and potential treatments. SMA is a genetically inherited condition causing muscle wasting. The severity of the condition depends on the type and age of onset. The severest form is often fatal during the first year of life. The main purpose of the group is to provide support, information, understanding, and friendship to those whose lives are affected by SMA. Established in 1985 and currently consisting of 1,500 members, JTSMA conducts an annual weekend conference, has an area contact network of people who provide local support to affected individuals and family members, and offers a variety of educational materials including informational leaflets, booklets, a JTSMA Library Book List, a JTSMA Toy List, and a regular newsletter entitled Holding Hands.