Every other day in the UK, a baby is born who may develop serious mitochondrial disease. The Lily Foundation was founded in 2007 by Liz Curtis in memory of her daughter Lily, who died from mito at just 8 months old. Finding little information or support to help her, Liz set out to provide answers for herself and others in her situation. The charity exists today to support affected patients and families, raise awareness of this little-known but incurable genetic condition and fund research into treatments and an eventual cure.

For those who know, this is a cause that is close to my heart. I was diagnosed with mitochondrial disease in 2022 after an 8 year long journey of countless hospital appointments and procedures. I was eventually referred to Moorfields Eye Hospital where finally I saw a doctor who has seen patients with mito before and recognised the signs. Since then I've undergone several surgeries, all hugely invasive but much needed procedures to get to a diagnosis and to aid my vision. Like countless other Mito worriers, this is just a few of many more surgeries that I will undergo in my lifetime

However, I count myself as one of the lucky ones... My version of mito is not life threatening and can be managed, unlike many others. Huge strides have been made in research and there's lots of medical trials currently underway - many of which are funded by the Lily Foundation - but there is still no cure...

While recovering from my latest surgery in December 2024, I decided I wanted to do something to support the Mito cause by spreading awareness and raising donations, which is where the idea of taking on the Yorkshire 3 Peaks was born.

Any donations, big or small, would be hugely appreciated.