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The United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation
The United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation was founded in 1996 through a merger of several smaller foundations established by those who lost loved ones to the disease. Starting as a volunteer organization based in the basement of a home, the UMDF has grown into a nationally recognized organization.
The UMDF is represented by countless volunteers who operate more than 60 local chapters, groups and ambassador programs and offers support to all sufferers of mitochondrial disorders regardless of diagnosis, suspected or confirmed.
UMDF Mission
To promote research and education for the diagnosis, treatment and cure of mitochondrial disorders and to provide support to affected individuals and families.
UMDF Research
Since 1996, the UMDF has provided more than $6 million in grants to support research that may lead to less invasive diagnoses, better treatments, and ultimately a cure.
UMDF Support
Members of the UMDF are able to network with other families and individuals to talk about mitochondrial disorders. The UMDF keeps members updated with the latest treatment advances and information through a quarterly newsletter. UMDF members are able to find support on the local and regional level through various chapters, groups and ambassadors. Click here to become a member.
UMDF Information and Communications
The UMDF maintains a website to provide the latest news and information about issues relating to mitochondrial disease research and information. Patients and families are invited to participate in the UMDF’s annual symposium; every year, some of the best physicians and researchers in the field of mitochondrial medicine come together to exchange ideas and share their knowledge with UMDF members. The UMDF also provides information about local fundraisers and educational programs. The UMDF advocates on the national level and empowers members to advocate on the local level regarding issues of medical funding and children's health issues as well as social services for the medically fragile and disabled.
Please help us provide for the thousands of children and adults whose lives are compromised or shortened by the effects of mitochondrial disease.
Your support brings...HOPE. ENERGY. LIFE.
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About Mitochondrial Disease
Mitochondrial diseases result from failures of the mitochondria, specialized compartments present in every cell of the body except red blood cells. Mitochondria are responsible for producing more than 90% of the energy needed by the body to sustain life and support growth. When they fail, less and less energy is generated within the cell. Cell injury and even cell death follow. If this process is repeated throughout the body, whole systems begin to fail, and the life of the person in whom this is happening is severely compromised. The disease primarily affects children, but adult onset is becoming more and more common.
Diseases of the mitochondria appear to cause the most damage to cells of the brain, heart, liver, skeletal muscles, kidney and the endocrine and respiratory systems.
Depending on which cells are affected, symptoms may include loss of motor control, muscle weakness and pain, gastro-intestinal disorders and swallowing difficulties, poor growth, cardiac disease, liver disease, diabetes, respiratory complications, seizures, visual/hearing problems, lactic acidosis, developmental delays and susceptibility to infection.
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