Julia & Maya were born fighters.

After a difficult pregnancy & 7 weeks of strict bedrest, Julia & Maya were born 6 weeks premature with a rare condition called twin to twin transfusion syndrome.

They have spent their lives in various therapies, doctor's offices, labs and hospitals.

At age 2 they were diagnosed with autism, at 4,

mitochondrial encephalomyopathy with defects in complexes I & III.

Mitochondrial disease is a metabolic disorder which prohibits

the body from properly converting food into energy.

A simple cold or flu can have devastating effects, even death.

Julia & Maya cannot perform basic daily living skills, speak, use utensils or dress themselves.

Their compromised energy prevents them from walking or playing

for any extended period of time.

They cannot tolerate heat or direct sunlight.

At times they are not able to walk from the car to the entrance of a store without collapsing.

But they are happy & they are fighters.

With daily supplements, medical care and continued research into mitochondrial diseases,

Julia & Maya can live happy, healthy lives.