Lily Wish Fund – grants for people affected by mitochondrial disease
The Lily Wish Fund is a grant scheme run by The Lily Foundation. Since 2007 it’s helped people with mitochondrial disease, their families and carers pay for things that improve daily life but they they couldn’t otherwise afford, such as an adapted trike or garden, or a short break.
There are many ways to make life easier and more enjoyable for families affected by mitochondrial disease, but they often come at a price. That’s why the Lily Wish Fund exists.
What can the Lily Wish Fund pay for?
Every application is considered individually. Applicants may apply for one of two grant options:
- Equipment or item grant: Up to £750 towards equipment or an item that will improve the quality of life of an individual affected by mitochondrial disease.
- Short break at Center Parcs: The break must be taken outside of school holidays.
Who can apply?
Individuals who have a formal diagnosis of mitochondrial disease, or a parent/carer of an individual diagnosed with mitochondrial disease, can apply. Families who have lost a loved one to the disease can apply for a short break. If you’re unsure whether your idea qualifies, please email us and ask.
Wishes we’ve already granted
We’ve already helped make wishes come true for many people affected by mitochondrial disease.
Families like Mark, Ruth and Ivy, whose new buggy opened up almost unlimited opportunities; And Jason, whose mitochondrial disease diagnosis meant he was in danger of losing his hearing, and his livelihood as a musician, before we stepped in to help.
How do I apply for a Lily Wish Fund grant?
- Email [email protected] for more information and an application form.
- Tell us what you would like us to help fund, and explain how it will benefit you or your child.
- We decide each application case by case. The Committee meets quarterly to assess all submitted applications. If you’ve had a wish granted in the last year, we take that into account when considering a new application.
Is emergency funding available?
Yes. As well as the Wish Fund, The Lily Foundation offers a crisis fund for individuals and families who need emergency money. To enquire about this, please email [email protected].
Frequently asked questions
What is the Lily Wish Fund? It’s a grant scheme from The Lily Foundation, running since 2007, that gives people affected by mitochondrial disease and their families access to something they might not normally be able to afford to improve their lives.
What is mitochondrial disease? Mitochondrial disease (often called mito) is a group of conditions that can affect people of any age. Our What is mitochondrial disease page explains the science.
Can I apply if I’ve lost a loved one to mito? Yes, families dealing with the loss of someone to mitochondrial disease can ask about a break or change of scenery.
Can I apply more than once? Yes, but if you’ve had a wish granted within the last year, that will be taken into account.
How do I apply for the Wish Fund or a crisis grant? Email Claire ([email protected]) for a Wish Fund application form, or Liz ([email protected]) for the crisis fund.
If you or your loved one is affected by mitochondrial disease, what will you wish for? Get in touch with Claire and tell us.
N.B. The Lily Wish Fund is discretionary, and all decisions made by the Committee are final.