Team Matilda
In April 2024, at the age of 4, Matilda experienced a prolonged seizure. Upon her arrival at University Hospital Coventry, Matilda was put into an induced coma before being transferred to Birmingham Children’s Hospital, where she spent 2 weeks between intensive care and a ward, with doctors trying to understand what had happened and why. The seizures caused inflammation to her brain, which in turn temporarily caused complications with her eyesight and coordination.
Matilda spent 4 days on intensive care before being moved onto a ward. After weeks of recovering from temporary effects of her seizure, she bounced back to her normal self, however genetic testing identified her diagnosis of POLG-related mitochondrial disease.
Matilda has been a source of strength in her own right throughout. She’s revelled in showing off her improvements since coming out of a coma and being unable to walk or see properly, and in enjoying her stay in a ward room and the company of nurses, doctors and physios.
Since returning home, she’s relished opportunities to enjoy the garden, playing with her little sister and returning to her swimming lessons. Matilda has made her parents and family beyond proud.
How to support Team Matilda
Matilda’s family would love you to support The Lily Foundation’s work. Whether it’s a one-off gift or a regular contribution, simply follow the link below to visit their JustGiving page and join the hundreds of others who have already made a difference.
Your donation will help fund groundbreaking research into mitochondrial disease, raise vital awareness and support hundreds of patients and families affected by this little-known but incurable condition.
Since 2007, The Lily Foundation have already raised over £11 million. With your help, we can continue to fight mito and find hope for everyone affected.
