Hazel's Heroes is a non-profit based out of St. Louis, MO raising money for the Hope for PDCD Foundation.
Hazel is a bright and brave one-year-old girl living in St. Louis. She faces the daily challenges of PDCD (pyruvate dehydrogenase complex deficiency), a rare metabolic disorder. Despite this, Hazel's spirit shines brightly, bringing joy and inspiration to everyone around her. Her resilience and the unwavering support of her family and community make her journey a testament to hope and perseverance.
What is PDCD?
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PDCD is pyruvate dehydrogenase complex deficiency, also known as PDCD, PDHC, PDH deficiency, and others. PDCD is a rare, genetic mitochondrial disorder that affects carbohydrate oxidation. It's caused by mutations in the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, which leads to abnormal mitochondrial metabolism. PDCD primarily affects the brain, causing decreased ATP production and energy deficit. It's often associated with lactic acidosis, progressive neurological and neuromuscular degeneration, and structural abnormalities of the brain.
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What causes PDCD?
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Most children with PDCD have an abnormality of the PDHA1 gene located on the X chromosome that is from a change occurring during development (mutation) and is not inherited from parents. Others follow a autosomal recessive inheritance (1 in 4 children affected).