Wirral woman raising money for mitochondrial disease

Faye Wylie, from Prenton, has Mitochondrial disease - an inherited, chronic illness that can be present at birth or develop later in life.

Also known as 'Mito', it is a progressive disease and can cause physical, developmental, and cognitive disabilities. There is no cure but treatments can help with symptoms.

Faye, who is 30, founded her own charity - Leigh Network - in 2010, which supports and brings together families affected by mitochondrial diseases, as well as helping to fund important research.

Faye Wylie on her pedal machine at home

She has been participating in her 'pedal dash' fundraiser in her own home over the past week and despite having to contend with an overwhelming array of chronic issues, she is determined to hit her target.

The Wylie family have already had to deal with personal tragedy after Faye's baby brother Sammy died from the same disease when he was just 19 months old. They were dealt a double-blow when Faye was diagnosed with Mito at the age of 12, but that has not stopped her from setting up her own charity in search of a cure.

Speaking to the Globe about the event, Faye's mum Mandy said: "It may not sound a lot, but when you consider she has to battle fatigue, Dystonia, muscle pain, balance and mobility difficulties, speech and swallowing problems and blindness, I and many others think Faye is amazing."

To donate to Faye's pedal dash fundraiser, click here.