Mitochondrial Disease Awareness

Mitochondrial disease is rare genetic disorder that affects the body’s ability to produce energy, impacting the brain, heart, muscles, and other vital systems.  It can be life-limiting, and for my little cousin, it is. Since her diagnosis, I’ve dedicated countless hours to raising awareness, organizing fundraisers and volunteering with organizations that support families like ours. It’s become a mission close to my heart.

Tucked between the pictures of family, holiday mornings, and her story is someone who changed my life in ways I never expected—my little cousin, Lexi.

At first, I thought this was her story. A battle she was born into but I’ve come to realize It’s my families story.  It’s the story of our family learning to love louder, to move slower and to be more present. It’s part of who I am. Being close to her has made me more patient, more grateful, and more grounded. Things I used to worry about now feel small in comparison.