The school’s remarkable efforts honoured Otto, son of alumna Millie, who tragically passed away from mitochondrial disease when he was just a baby. Determined to support Millie, and help others affected by mito, the students came together to prove that many hands definitely make light work when it comes to fighting the disease.
Led entirely by Sixth Form students, the fundraising campaign included a week of high-energy fundraising events, from talent shows and live music to an annual netball match and a spectacular two-night fashion show. At every stage, it was teamwork, creativity and compassion that turned their ideas into impact.
The Head Girl team presented a cheque to Millie, who was overwhelmed by the amount of money they’d raised. “I am so honoured that Portsmouth High School chose The Lily Foundation as their charity, in memory of our beautiful son Otto,” she said. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting their work. You’re all amazing, and I’ve never felt more proud to be a Portsmouth High School girl.”
Turning fundraising into a lifeline for families
The money the schoolgirls have raised will support the Lily Precision Diagnostics Project, which helps families get quicker, more accurate genetic diagnoses – vital for understanding the risks of passing on mitochondrial disease in future pregnancies.
Millie and her partner Tony have seen first-hand how a genetic diagnosis can change everything. When Otto was diagnosed, access to gene testing allowed them to plan for the future. They’ve dedicated their fundraising to helping other families access the same life-changing answers, and recently celebrated the arrival of Otto’s baby brother, Sonny, a powerful reminder of the hope their efforts are helping to create.
“Supporting Millie and keeping Otto’s legacy alive gave every fundraising event a deeper meaning,” said Head Girl Katie. “Knowing that our efforts have contributed to vital research is something we’ll never forget. It’s brought our school community together in such a powerful way, and we feel so proud to have played a part in raising awareness and supporting families affected by this disease.”
This incredible campaign proves what’s possible when a community comes together. Portsmouth High’s students have honoured baby Otto’s legacy in the most powerful way – by raising awareness, bringing hope and reminding us all that when we fight mito together, we’re stronger.
