Kailyn & Charis

Kailyn and Charis are two beautiful souls whose joy and strength inspire everyone who meets them. Though both of these sisters live with mitochondrial disease—a rare and complex disorder that affects the body’s ability to produce energy—they continue to shine with laughter, love, and an incredible zest for life. Despite facing serious health challenges and countless hospital stays, Kailyn and Charis approach every day with courage and resilience that amaze their family, friends, and community.

Their mother, Christina, founded the Mito Research Fund in their honor to raise awareness and support scientific research that brings hope to families affected by mitochondrial disease. What began as one mother’s mission to help her daughters has grown into a movement powered by compassion and determination. Through the fund’s annual events and tireless advocacy, Christina continues to share Kailyn and Charis’s story—reminding the world that even in the face of hardship, love, hope, and perseverance can make a lasting difference.