In the UK, eight babies have been born using genetic material from three people. This method, of combining the egg and sperm from a mum and dad with a second egg from a donor woman, has led to children born free of incurable mitochondrial disease. The method can also serve to prevent other devastating and often fatal conditions from being passed down.

To find out more about this incredible development, please visit the following link:

• https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cn8179z199vo 
• https://www.thelilyfoundation.org.uk/news/breakthrough-in-mitochondrial-donation-ivf-brings-hope-to-families/ 

This is a truly amazing breakthrough however, many people are still fighting against the devastating effects of mitochondrial disease and need our help. In order to support those who are suffering from the illness, and their families, Cognition Land and Water has organised the Carbon Neutral Challenge!

The Carbon Neutral Challenge is an exciting charity event designed to raise money for The Lily Foundation, a leading UK charity dedicated to fighting mitochondrial disease. Mitochondrial disease affects the body’s ability to produce energy, leading to serious health complications and it currently has no cure. The Lily Foundation supports families affected by mitochondrial disease, funds critical research, and work to raise awareness of this devastating condition.

Participants in the charity event will travel from London to Paris using sustainable, carbon-neutral transport methods—cycling, walking, running or rowing/kayaking.

The challenge will take place between 4th - 8th September 2025 and we warmly welcome other companies and individuals outside of Cognition to participate and donate.

For more information about the event, please see the following link: https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:EU:18c8d352-40bd-4fbd-b959-93f99cef474e 

To sign up to participate, please fill out the following google doc: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfHl_TTjBBxW6kblJu1OSmVgaiYlHT4Hzn6HIMYK3puYMK17g/viewform?usp=header

If you wish to make a donation to The Lily Foundation, please visit the events JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/team/cognition-land-and-water-fundraiser?utm_medium=TE&utm_source=CL 

Contact us here if you have any further questions about the event or how to get involved: emilia.holloway@cognitionltd.com

Safety disclaimer: participants take part in this event at their own risk. While we prioritise safety, the organisers are not responsible for any injuries, accidents or lost belongings during the journey.