Poker run raises money for mitochondrial disease

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Valley motorcycle riders joined together Sunday, trying to raise money and awareness of a disease that claimed the life of a Clovis East student.

The Hearts and Harleys Poker Run was held in memory of Brittany Wilkinson -- who spent much of her young life trying to raise awareness of mitochondrial disease. The disease attacks the body on a cellular level, and Brittany's mother told Action News that in order to find a cure for the disease, there has to be awareness.

"Brittany passed away two and a half years ago. She had just turned 18. And as you can see, we are still fighting for her cause, fighting for a cure for mitochondrial disease. And I believe we will have that," said Linda Wilkinson.

Brittany Wilkinson served as a youth ambassador for the United States Mitochondrial Foundation, and even went to our nation's capitol in order to try and raise awareness of the disease.

Her service dog, Freedom, was with her all along the way -- and she was also at Sunday's fundraiser, wearing a vest with Brittany's name.

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