Ireland

The Williams Syndrome Association of Ireland (WSAI) was set up in 1987 to promote the general welfare of children/adults with Williams Syndrome and to provide practical help and support for them and their families. WSAI has approximately 80 member families.

Each year the association runs a weeklong Music/Activity Camp for WS people during the summer. It also organises other events for its members e.g. a weekend get-together, a picnic, an informational seminar on some aspect of WS. Telephone support and information packs are provided for WS families, particularly those who are newly diagnosed. WSAI relies almost completely on fundraising and donations in order to continue its work for WS people and their families.

Ann Breen Ann is the founding member of the Williams Syndrome Association of Ireland (WSAI) which she started with one other family in 1987. She has 2 children. Her daughter, Karen, was born in 1983 and has Williams Syndrome. Ann is an accountant by profession and worked as both secretary and treasurer for WSAI for over 20 years. She is now Honorary President of WSAI. Ann is the WSAI’s official delegate to FEWS and she has worked as treasurer for FEWS since the start.