What is Mitochondrial Disease?

Mitochondrial diseases are the result of either inherited or spontaneous mutations in mtDNA or nDNA. The Mitochondrial Disease primarily affects children, but adult onset is also common. Mitochondrial Diseases result from failures of the mitochondria. Mitochondria are specialized and important compartments present in every cell of the body except red blood cells. The mitochondria are responsible for generating more than 90% of the energy needed by the body to support proper growth. When the mitochondria fail, less and less energy is created within the cell. Organ systems can begin to fail, and the life of the child in whom this is happening is severely compromised.

How Can I Raise Awareness and Help Children with Mitochondrial Disease?

There are many ways to help spread the word about terminal illnesses like Mitochondrial Disease. Help us get the word out there by supporting Henry’s Hope. Henry’s Hope is a 501 (c)(3) organization that is an advocate in two very different ways.

First, our Hope on the Hill campaign will work to change the focus and raise awareness for these children.

Second, and just as important, is to assist patients and their families on their difficult journey by providing patient advocates.

The process of diagnosis and treatment is emotional and draining.  Digesting all that the doctors, insurance companies, and others say can be overwhelming for anyone.  Henry’s Hope Advocates will assist in walking parents through the process in asking the right questions, obtain the necessary benefits, and just be there.

 

To learn more about Henry’s Hope, please visit www.HenrysHope.org

Click the link for more info on Children Dealing with Terminal Illness