Maverick's Fight Against Mitochondrial Disease & POLG

Maverick Colin Smith was a joyful, energetic child who loved playing golf, but everything changed in February 2020 when he experienced his first seizure at just 4 years old. After spending weeks at Texas Children’s Hospital, Maverick was diagnosed with Mitochondrial Disease and a POLG genetic defect. For the next three years, his condition was managed with only a few minor episodes.

On June 17, 2024, Maverick had a major seizure that drastically altered his life. After an 11-day hospital stay, it seemed like he was recovering, but soon after, he had to be rushed back due to severe myoclonic jerks. This led to another 29-day hospitalization, and unfortunately, his condition continued to deteriorate in the following weeks.

Since August 24, 2024, Maverick has been in the PICU at Texas Children’s Hospital. Doctors are working tirelessly to control his seizures, and he has been heavily sedated since August 25. They are now carefully reducing his medications, hoping to bring him back to consciousness so they can assess his condition and determine the next steps in what will be a long and difficult journey to recovery.

Maverick’s parents, Courtney and Scott, are facing immense emotional and financial challenges as they support their son through this battle. The ongoing medical care, hospital stays, and specialized treatments have led to overwhelming expenses. They are asking for support to help cover these costs and ensure Maverick gets the care he needs.

Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a significant impact on Maverick’s journey to recovery. Please consider donating and sharing his story. Your generosity will offer hope and relief to Maverick and his family during this incredibly challenging time.

Thank you for supporting Maverick, Courtney, and Scott in this fight.