2022 MitoScholars/+ Empowering youth living with, or family members who are living with, mitochondrial disease to focus on their futures

Nelson Currie | Victoria, B.C. | Biology-Psychology (first year), University of Victoria

Nelson Currie, a young man who has a parent with mitochondrial neurogastrointestinal encephalopathy (MNGIE), a rare autosomal recessive mitochondrial disease. Nelson just graduated high school.

He loves sports, choir, and the outdoors. He’s pursuing an undergraduate degree in biology and psychology. “I’m interested in medicine, possibly in a rural location, although I’m still learning about where I might best utilize my interests and talents,” he says.

MitoCanada is thrilled to support Nelson in his educational pursuits. “I appreciate your support and confidence in me as I start my post-secondary journey,” says Nelson. “This is also a show of support to my family, especially my Mom who faces the daily challenges of coping with a rare mitochondrial disease. I’m excited about my upcoming academic studies in the year ahead.”

“Perhaps in some small way, I may have the opportunity to contribute to the body of knowledge about genetic diseases.”