In 1984, at the age of 5, Rebecca Smith was diagnosed with A-T, and the Smiths joined the worldwide circle of families affected by this disease. George and Pam Smith – active members of their community and prominent philanthropists – soon learned that A-T was one of the rare "orphan diseases", which are not attractive topics of research and funding. The Smiths decided to make a change in this situation and established the A-T Medical Research Foundation. Together with their close friend, Lois Rosen, and other friends and supporters who volunteered for the mission, they taught themselves the painstaking work of fund-raising. Pam, an educator and supporter of the arts, recruited a group of dedicated friends to the task. George, a real estate entrepreneur, did the same with his colleagues in the business community of Southern California. The money raised at the Foundation's events was dedicated entirely to A-T research. With these activities the Smiths became part of a community of A-T families in several countries that work towards the same goals: to increase awareness of A-T among the public and policy makers, and to help expedite A-T research.

Pam and George did this while taking care of Rebecca and her three siblings James, Jill and Matthew. Despite her disease, Rebecca led a very active life, graduating from high school and pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in college.

George Smith's contributions to society, to biomedical research, and to Tel Aviv University were recognized in 2005 when he was awarded an honorary doctorate ( Doctor Honoris Causa ) by Tel Aviv University. This moment of gratification was soon succeeded by two tragic events: George passed away later that year, and Rebecca succumbed to her disease in early 2006 at the age of 27. Their memory is cherished by A-T families and A-T researchers everywhere. Pam, Lois and their friends continue their dedicated work in support of A-T research, carrying on George and Rebecca's legacy.