This is the story of our MitoHero Stitch A. Ohana, who battles a mitochondrial disease every day of his life. Stitch has always been a super happy baby. Up until the age of 1 year old, our life was normal until it wasn’t anymore. We found out our child had epilepsy, and from there, everything went downhill. He had genetic testing done, and it turns out our precious baby boy had a rare mitochondrial disease. Stitch has never let it phase or stop him from being who he is. Mitochondrial disease has kept my baby from walking, talking, and meeting other milestones any child his age would be meeting. Stitch loves Monster Jam, cars, and anything to do with water. He deserves to enjoy these things just like any other kid, and that’s where his therapy comes in! His therapy has helped him in so many ways; he has become a completely new toddler during his time at Thrive.

We have been receiving therapy through Thrive Pediatrics for about two years now through IRC, and soon the help will come to an end. Unfortunately, we will have to pay out of pocket for Stitch to receive the therapy he needs in order to thrive in life, which we cannot afford. This fundraiser is so we can pay for a full year of therapy at THRIVE Pediatrics. If we could just ask everyone to donate $1 and share, I’m sure we will meet our goal so that Stitch can continue to get the help he needs to communicate, be physically capable, and just live as normal of a life as he can!