Living with mitochondrial disease isn’t just about managing symptoms, it’s about navigating uncertainty, change, and the emotional weight that can come with it.
What is mitoConnect? 
mitoConnect is MitoCanada’s free online peer support program for Canadians living with mitochondrial disease. Individuals can connect with a trained peer supporter, someone who understands the mito journey, because they’re living it too.
Peer support isn’t therapy, and it isn’t just friendship. It’s a purposeful connection between people who share lived experience, built on listening, respect, and understanding.
Our peer supporters are volunteers trained in peer support principles, who also live with mitochondrial disease themselves. They are not medical or mental health professionals. Their role is not to provide clinical or mental health advice, but to offer understanding, encouragement, and connection through shared experience.
Our peer supporters are grounded in the belief that every person is the expert in their own life. They lead with respect, uphold confidentiality, honour your right to make your own decisions, and approach every conversation with authenticity and care.
What You Can Expect 
mitoConnect provides:
- A thoughtful match with a trained peer supporter
- A safe, confidential space to talk openly
- A space to talk about mito: day-to-day living, work, school, relationships, stressful days, travelling, lifestyle, managing symptoms and much more.
- Support from someone who understands because they live with mito, too
- Encouragement to move forward in the way that feels right for you
How It Works
- Complete the form below to request peer support.
- A MitoCanada representative will reach out to learn more about your needs and preferences.
- We will thoughtfully match you with a trained peer supporter.
- Conversations take place online, by secure chat, or audio call, at a time that works for both of you.
Participation is voluntary, and you may withdraw from the program at any time.
- Participants must be 18 years of age or older.
- Conversations are private and confidential within the program guidelines.
- mitoConnect does not provide medical advice, crisis support, or mental health counselling.
- Peer support does not replace professional healthcare. For medical concerns, participants are encouraged to speak with their healthcare team.
If you’re ready to connect, please complete the form below.
A MitoCanada representative will reach out to learn more about what support looks like for you and answer any questions you may have.
