State Park Heavy Equipment Operator  E.J. Fogel's daughter, Taryn , was born in December 2001 with what has been diagnosed as a “Mitochondrial disease”. Mitochondria are often called the ‘cell’s ”engine” or the “power plant” of the cell..

Mitochondrial diseases result when there is a defect that reduces the ability of the cells mitochondria to produce energy, cells will not function properly and if this continues, cell death will eventually follow. Multiple organ systems will begin to fail and the life of the individual is compromised, changed or ended. Thought to have once been a “rare disease”, dysfunction of the mitochondria are now believed to have a role in several other disease’s, such as Autism, Parkinsons and Alzhiemers. .  There are no known cures for mitochondrial disease.

"Although bound to a wheelchair and unable to hear or speak, Taryn is quite a remarkable happy child who speaks with her eyes and joyful smile and spirit, telling those who meet her what is really important in life," E.J. exclaimed, “ I am always amazed to see how people are touched by her, I couldn’t be more proud of my little girl.”

Taryns particular form of mitochondrial disease does not have a good prognosis, her life expectancy is nine… and she will be eight this year. “We do not know what tomorrow will bring, and we just try to live each day to its fullest, “ said E.J. “This whole thing is terrible and heartbreaking,” he continued,  “ we have to do the best we can for her, and certainly being negative wouldn’t be helping her at all.”

E.J. and his wife Debbie are dedicated to raising awareness and fundraising to find a cure for Mitochondrial Diseases. The California State Employee Charitable Campaign (CSECC) allows state employees, like E.J. to donate to any 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization such as the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

For more information about Taryn, please visit www.tarynshope4life.com