Home / Health / Mom Reveals Daughter's Rare Genetic Killer
Mom Reveals Daughter's Rare Genetic Killer
24 Apr
Summary
- Rare genetic mitochondrial condition identified as cause of death.
- Condition, PPA2, is passed down from carriers and affects mitochondria.
- Organization SUDC provided support and aided in genetic testing.
Melissa Mae Carlton recently shared the diagnosis of her late daughter, Molly, who passed away in December 2025. Four months after her child's death, Carlton revealed on Instagram that Molly suffered from PPA2, a rare genetic mitochondrial condition. This condition is inherited from parents who carry the gene and can affect the heart if mitochondria are compromised.
Carlton expressed relief that her family has found closure, identifying PPA2 as the likely cause of death for both Molly and her second daughter, Abigail, who died in 2024 from sepsis. She highlighted that many doctors are not fully aware of PPA2, emphasizing the need for increased awareness. Her family is undergoing tests to ensure no one else is affected.
The family received crucial support and answers through the organization Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC). This organization assisted with genetic testing and offers support to grieving families while working to advance research into unexplained child deaths.
