The first signs of mito started showing years before, with her eyes and her balance being the first of the symptoms. Then came fatigue and neuropathy beginning in her feet slowly working its way to her shins. Eventually Mum lost all feeling from her knees down. This affected her balance even further, causing many falls and injuries over the years, as well as her ability to drive costing her independence.

In September 2020, Mum took a big fall, breaking her tibia and fibula, which led to surgery and leaving her in hospital for the months to follow due to Dad’s illness and renovations at home, to make the house more accommodating for a wheel chair. This broke Mum’s heart, all she wanted was to be at home looking after Dad. That’s who Mum was, she didn’t want fuss over her. She was the caregiver, a nurse at heart.

On January 12th, still in hospital, Mum started having seizures and was airlifted to hospital in Melbourne. Following Dad’s final treatment, we followed her down preparing ourselves for the worst, but hoping for the best.

A few days later Mumma passed, in Dad's arms, and surrounded by family. The happiest, most loving and caring person.

In 2024, The Bloody Long Walk coincided with Mum's birthday and, for the first time, my family and I walked to raise funds for The Mito Foundation. This year, Kel's Cloud Walkers are off to Sydney on November 16 to do the walk again. Every cent we can raise helps The Mito Foundation continue their work to help sufferers, raise awareness, and continue research into this disease. Thank you for helping us help them.

In memory of Kellie, my mum.