Each year, Prime Financial Credit Union supports the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation (UMDF) alongside Morgan’s Mito March. Morgan’s parents, Colleen, PFCU Chief Operations Officer, and Troy, lead the effort in memory of their daughter Morgan, who was a close friend to many at the credit union. Held in September, World Mitochondrial Disease Awareness Week brings people together to raise funds and awareness for mitochondrial disease.
This year, our team raised $1,055, and altogether, Morgan's Mito March team raised $31,237 in 2026, the highest amount of any team nationwide!
“Every person who walked, donated, shared a post, or simply asked about Morgan learned a little more about mitochondrial disease. For a rare disease, that awareness matters,” Colleen shared.
Understanding mitochondrial disease
Mitochondria are parts of our cells that help turn food and oxygen into the energy our bodies need. Mitochondrial disease, often called mito, occurs when mitochondria cannot produce enough energy for cells to function as they should.
Because nearly every part of the body depends on energy, mito can affect different organs and systems. The brain, heart, and muscles are especially vulnerable because they need so much energy. Symptoms and their severity can vary widely from one person to another, which means families affected by mito may have very different experiences.
There is currently no universal cure for mitochondrial disease, but researchers are working toward better ways to diagnose and treat mitochondrial disease and related conditions. Research funding helps move that work forward, and awareness helps more people understand the challenges affected individuals and families face.
About UMDF
The United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation supports people affected by mito while advancing education and research into better diagnosis, treatments, and cures. Donations help fund research grants, patient services, genetic testing, and educational programs.
UMDF also helps build community. It creates opportunities for individuals and families to connect with others who understand their experiences, share support, and learn from one another. For families facing a rare disease, those connections can be deeply meaningful.
Together, families and supporters raise awareness of mitochondrial disease and advocate for better access to diagnosis and care. Morgan’s Mito March is one example of what that community can accomplish: celebrating Morgan’s memory, welcoming others into her story, and supporting work that can help families across the country.
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