Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

In December, an old friend of mine John Nichols, contacted me to see how he could raise money for The Lily Foundation.. 2 hours later and I've become the final member of a 4 man team taking on a challenge to trek unsupported across 100km of Arctic wilderness inside the Arctic Circle - right at the Northern boundary of Finland. 

But why? 

As a family we have been touched and impacted by Mitochondrial Disease. Poppy, our youngest, was diagnosed with Mitochondrial Disease back in October 2013. 

Mitochondrial Disease it a highly complicated disorder that impacts each and every person differently. The best way to describe Mitochondria is as body's battery pack (every cell in your body has them). If these batteries are running low or don’t charge properly then normal biological development processes will be impacted. Mitochondrial Disease can impact almost any part of the body from the muscles to the brain. Little is really known about this disease. There are no treatments. There is no cure.

Most prominent for Poppy is her inability to walk, significant developmental delay and a reduced gross motor function. Despite her significant challenges Poppy is the most amazing little girl. Always smiling and bringing warmth and love with every breath. But as time passes we know Poppy is starting to comprehend that she faces different challenges to most other kids but her resilience and perseverance is extraordinary. She has a determination in her eyes that brings real joy despite the anguish.

All your donations will go directly to the Lily Foundation. The Lily Foundation is committed to finding a cure for Mitochondrial Disease, and have a three point mission 1) fund research to improve diagnosis and treatment options 2) raise awareness of these conditions to they are more easily recognised 3) support families with sick children. 

Please give what you can; it will make a huge difference for the Lily Foundation.

Thanks,
James