Information for those affected by Huntington's disease

Walking the journey
together

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. It is characterized by involuntary movements, loss of intellectual abilities, and emotional disturbances. 

Symptoms usually appear in a person’s thirties or forties, and worsen over time.

There is currently no cure for HD, but various treatments can help manage symptoms. The disease is caused by a genetic mutation on chromosome 4, and it is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, which means that if a person inherits the mutated gene from one parent, they will develop the disease. 

HD is relatively rare, affecting about 1 in 10,000 people worldwide.

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  |  HELPING  HUNTINGTON's  DISEASE  SUFFERERS  IN  AUCKLAND
The Huntington's Auckland Team

Working towards a better tomorrow

The Huntington's Disease Association Auckland is a not for profit charity supporting individuals and families affected by Huntington's Disease. Founded in the early 1980s, our aim is to maximize the quality of life of people living with HD by:
Ensuring those who need it get the right support services and medical attention;
Enabling others to understand the disease; and
Furthering research to manage and cure Huntington's Disease.

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    Discover how you can get involved by volunteering.

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    Every donation will go to assist our members.

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WALK WALK WALK IN SUPPORT OF HUNTINGTON'S DISEASE

Ankles, knees, hips, back, shoulders, neck, lungs, heart and brain – these are the only bits of my body I’m really worried about. But a little knowledge is a dangerous thing and my right (or left I’m not actually sure) brain is whispering to me that maybe I should be more worried about the physical, mental and emotional challenge of the 3000km Te Araroa Trail. That part of my brain is keeping me awake at night…

Dr Scruffy. Grumpy. Glass half Full. Dr Cynical. Nerd. Tuck your shirt in man. Doc. 25 years of supporting the health and wellbeing of Olympic Athletes around the globe has led to many titles. But having made the difficult decision to move on, nervously approaching the Te Araroa Trail seems like a great way to transition (or maybe more accurately delay) to the next phase of my working life – whatever that may be!

Sadly and way too young, my father was diagnosed with Huntington’s Disease – a tragic condition that insidiously stole his adult life. A genetic disease, we didn’t know it was in the family – but, turns out it was, and is, and as the son of my father I had a half a glass chance of the same fate. I’ve been able to write my own life path – and now I’m following a path through New Zealand to support those living with and suffering from Huntington’s Disease.

Follow my journey, support the cause @ https://www.instagram.com/brucewalksnz/
More details to follow before I start my trek on October 26, 2024!

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Our Testimonials

Some Welcome Feedback

Our organisation aims to touch many lives, bringing hope, and transforming communities. Don’t just take our word for it – here what others have to say here.

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Our caregivers work directly with patients and with our organisation.

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Make a difference in the lives Huntington's sufferers. Your support will go towards:

  • Support for sufferers of Huntington's disease

  • Education and awareness campaigns

  • Advocacy for healthcare access and resources

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Frequently asked questions

Some questions that you or your family may have

Our staff is here to help. Some common characteristics of Huntington's Disease lead to questions that may be useful to you.

Further questions

Who can get Huntington's Disease

Huntington's is not something you catch. Rather, it is passed down through generations. Every child conceived to a parent who has the Huntington's gene has a 50% chance of interiting it. (https://hda.org.uk).

Can I test for the Huntington's Gene

Yes, a genetic test can show if you have the faulty gene. You can live with that gene for years without symptoms, but at some stage you will develop symptoms.

Is there a cure for Huntington's Disease

No, sadly there is no cure, but symptons can be managed to improve your quality of life. However, there are several international clinical trials in process of finding an effective treatment.

What is juvenile Huntington's disesase?

Huntington's affects men and women alike. It usually developts between the ages of 30 and 50, but can start at any age. If symptoms develop before the age of 20, that is classed as Juvenile Huntington's disease.

Where can you get help

There are 3 main HD associations in New Zealand based in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. Otherwise, several other areas in New Zealand have Huntington’s Advisors available. If you’re in Auckland, then feel free to reach out to us. More Info