In recognition of Rare Disease Day, that occurs later this month on February 28th, Kennedy Krieger Institute’s mitochondrial disease specialist, Dr. Hilary Vernon, introduces us to a patient who benefits from Dr. Vernon’s expertise and from whom she received an accurate diagnosis for her rare, mitochondrial disease. In addition to identifying a diagnosis, Dr. Vernon continues to support this mother of three by monitoring her health and providing specialized vitamins that aid mitochondrial function and a specially-tailored care plan. Her patient inspires her because rather than let her rare disease hold her back, she home-schools her three children, advocates for legislation to support others with rare diseases, helps educate physicians in training and makes the most of every minute of every day.