Parents Raise Awareness of Mitochondrial Disease After Son’s Diagnosis

The parents of a baby boy diagnosed with mitochondrial disease are sharing their story to raise awareness about this rare but serious condition. Ezra Fletcher, who will turn two in December, was diagnosed earlier this year after exhibiting concerning health issues. His journey highlights the need for increased understanding of mitochondrial diseases, which affect approximately one in 5,000 individuals.

Ezra’s health appeared normal until he was around seven months old, when he developed severe bronchitis and later contracted croup. His mother, Laura Mattinson, 33, noted a significant change in his behaviour. Concerns escalated when, during his vaccinations near his first birthday, he “didn’t cry or flinch,” prompting medical professionals to investigate further.

At a routine check, a health visitor observed that Ezra had stopped reaching developmental milestones. A paediatrician at Hull Royal Infirmary also noted that his head was larger than normal and that he was tilting it to one side. These symptoms raised alarms, leading to an urgent MRI scan in April 2025, which ultimately confirmed the diagnosis of mitochondrial disease.

Mitochondria are vital components of cells, functioning like tiny battery packs that convert food and oxygen into energy. When they malfunction, it can severely affect health, particularly major organs that require a significant energy supply.

“It is now widely accepted there hardly exists any human disease which does not involve mitochondrial malfunction in some way,”

stated Prof Volkmar Weissig, president of the World Mitochondrial Society.

Laura and her partner, Josh Fletcher, are now collaborating with My Mito Mission, a charity dedicated to raising awareness and support for individuals affected by mitochondrial disease. The charity encourages families like theirs to create their own Mito Missions, which serve to educate communities and raise funds for research and support initiatives.

Ezra’s health challenges have been compounded by his symptoms, which include difficulty swallowing. Since May, he has been tube-fed as a precaution but has recently transitioned back to pureed food. Despite these hurdles, Laura reports that Ezra is thriving. “He’s doing really well,” she said. “Since he started on some vitamins, he seems to have really picked up. He’s regaining his strength and trying to sit up again.”

The family’s mission is to educate others about mitochondrial disease, which remains under-recognized despite its prevalence. Laura expressed a desire to organize charity fundraising events to support their mission and enhance community knowledge surrounding the condition. “We feel like we always have to repeat ourselves, even telling people the most basic facts about mitochondrial disease, so we think it’s so important that people are educated,” she explained.

Research into mitochondrial dysfunction is crucial, as it could provide insights into various conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, and even cancer. By raising awareness about mitochondrial diseases, families like Ezra’s hope to contribute to a broader understanding that could lead to better treatment options in the future.

To assist Ezra and support My Mito Mission, visit the official website at [My Mito Mission](https://www.mymitomission.uk/ezras-mito-mission-hull/).