EmilyIng

About Emily Ing

This author has not yet filled in any details.
So far Emily Ing has created 72 blog entries.

Light Up for Miller

Light Up for Miller

Join us for the first annual “Light Up for Miller” community gathering at Memorial Park in White Rock, BC to share a sweet treat, connect with the community, and watch the White Rock Pier light up for mito on the evening of September 20th.

The event is hosted by Taylor and Chris Collins who lost their 5-month-old son Miller to an extremely rare form of MT-TL1-related mitochondrial disease in October 2025. Although devastatingly short, Miller lived a beautiful life surrounded by family and full of playdates with his baby friends. He spent the majority of his life at their family’s cabin in Point Roberts enjoying the fresh ocean air, sunshine, and walks along the beach all summer long.

Aside from some slight muscle weakness, he was healthy and symptom-free up until just weeks before his passing when the disease began to noticeably impact his breathing, feeding, and energy levels. He received the most incredible care from BC Children’s Hospital, but after receiving the diagnosis the family was heartbroken to learn that there were no treatments available and that Miller would not recover.

Taylor and Chris now want nothing more than to carry on their son’s memory and legacy in ways that continue to light up the world the way that Miller lit up theirs. After learning about Light Up for Mito, and that their favourite hometown landmark already participated in the movement, Taylor and Chris thought the pier would be the perfect location and opportunity to bring people together, share Miller’s story and help spread awareness about mitochondrial disease within their community.

Event Details

📅 Sunday, September 20th, 2026

🕢 6:30-8:00 PM

📍Memorial Park 15300 Marine Drive, White Rock, BC

✨ No registration required, drop-by, attendees are encouraged to wear green to show their support and donations will be gratefully accepted and made possible on-site

There will be a limited number of ice cream cones available for attendees, generously donated by Maya’s Ice Cream.

Taylor and Chris hope that this gathering will serve as a meaningful addition to the Light Up for Mito campaign, and most importantly a beautiful way for Miller’s life to have a positive impact on the lives of other families who continue to live with, and be affected by mitochondrial disease.

Read More

Sunset Picnic Gathering – Ottawa

Sunset Picnic Gathering

Join families, friends, and community members in Ottawa for a Sunset Picnic in recognition of Mitochondrial Disease Awareness Month at Des Pionniers Park.

Inspired by Catherine, a young girl living with Leigh syndrome, this gathering was inspired by the simple way her family has learned to approach life since her diagnosis, by making time for one another, celebrating everyday moments, and creating memories together. It is an invitation to bring that spirit to the wider mitochondrial community.

The evening will be a relaxed and welcoming opportunity for families and friends to bring a picnic, enjoy the park, let children play, connect with others, and take a moment to celebrate life, remember those we carry in our hearts, and share hope for the future.

Event Details

📅 Thursday, September 17th, 2026

🌅 5:00-8:00 PM

📍  Meet at Des Pioneers Park in Ottawa, Ontario (beside Des Pionniers Catholic Elementary School – 720 Merkley Dr, Orléans, ON K4A 1L8)

🧺 Bring a picnic, blanket, or chairs and enjoy the sunset

💚 No registration required, family-friendly — children are welcome!

As the sun sets, everyone will be invited to share a simple One Spark moment, holding green glow sticks as a symbol of the energy within our cells, the strength of the mitochondrial community, and the hope for better treatments and brighter futures.

This evening is about connection, celebration, remembrance, and hope. It is a chance to meet others, share stories, make memories, and remind one another that no one in the mitochondrial community is alone. Catherine is the inspiration behind this gathering, but the evening is for everyone living with mitochondrial disease, who are working toward a brighter future.

Come as you are and make memories together. 💚





Read More

Community Events

MitoCommunity Events

Welcome to the heart of our community – where passionate individuals and groups across the country come together to support MitoCanada!

This page is your go-to destination for all the incredible events happening nationwide in support of those impacted by mitochondrial disease.

We are deeply grateful to the dedicated individuals and organizations who take the time to plan and host these events. Your energy, commitment, and generosity make a profound impact, helping us raise awareness, foster connections, and fund essential programs that support the mito community.

Interested in Hosting Your Own Event?

We’d love to help bring your vision to life! Whether big or small, every community event contributes to our shared mission of improving the lives of those affected by mitochondrial disease. Browse our event listings below as a source of inspiration to host your own event or  join in the fun, take part in an exisitng event. Your support makes a difference!

Our Community Fundraisers for Mitochondrial Disease Awareness Month (September)

Our Past Community Fundraisers

Frankie G Pub Night logo
Frankie G Pub Night logo
HBBT Council Swing for a Cure Charity Golf Tournament logo
Rocking With Mito Fundraiser logo

Read More

Mito Glow Walk

Mito Glow Walk – Saskatoon

Join Tanner and the Wilson family for the annual Mito Glow Walk in Saskatoon, SK. Each year on Light Up for Mito day, friends, family, and members of the community dress in bright green and glowing gear gathered to walk for Tanner and all the mito warriors who have fought or continue to fight mitochondrial disease.⁠

Meet Tanner 

Tanner was the baby who completed Leeanne and Patrick Wilson’s family, joining his big brother, Nolan.  But as Tanner grew, they noticed he wasn’t hitting his milestones. He was slower to walk and talk and had mild eye abnormalities. ⁠
⁠
After countless medical visits and tests, a fall sent Tanner to the ER. An MRI revealed a devastating diagnosis: Leigh syndrome, a rare mitochondrial disease.⁠
⁠
Searching for answers, the Wilsons connected with Dr. Aneal Khan, who gave them more clarity. It was also Dr. Khan who suggested they connect with MitoCanada and attend an upcoming conference. There, Leeanne says, they “found their tribe.”
⁠⁠
Now 12 years old, Tanner continues to amaze his family with his strength and spirit. “He is a strong warrior, a determined young man who, despite the challenges of mito, approaches life with remarkable resilience,” Leeanne says.

Donate

Read More

In Loving Memory of Kailani Gorzo

In Loving Memory: Kailani Gorzo, a loving 14-year-old girl who brought so much light into this world. 

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Kailani Gorzo. Kailani was beautiful, she meant everything to her family and friends, and her love ran deep. Being around her made you feel special, seen, and truly loved.

She found happiness in the simplest and most beautiful things, butterflies, rainbows, and her favourite colour purple. She had a playful spirit and loved to be silly, always making people laugh in her own unique way. Kailani also had her own special kind of sass, a spark of personality that made her unforgettable and brought so much joy to everyone around her.

She adored her two pets, Charlie, her loyal dog, and Caramel, her sweet guinea pig. They were a big part of her world and brought her comfort on even the hardest days.

Kailani spent much of her life at the Children’s Hospital, where she became more than just a patient, she became part of their family.

The doctors and nurses knew her well and loved her deeply. Even through everything she faced, Kailani showed incredible strength, courage, and resilience. She never lost her spirit, her warmth, or her ability to bring smiles to others.

Our hearts are broken without her. Her smile, her laughter, and her beautiful soul are deeply missed every single day. Though her time here was far too short, the love she gave and the memories she left behind will stay with us forever.

This page is created in her memory, to honour her life, her strength, and the love she shared with the world. Thank you for helping us keep Kailani’s spirit alive and for supporting us in remembering the amazing girl she was.

At the request of Kailani’s family, donations may be made to MitoCanada in her memory, honouring the life, strength, and love she shared. 

Read More

The Great Clyde Challenge Trivia Night

The Great Clyde Challenge Trivia Night

Gather your team and join us for the inaugural Great Clyde Challenge Trivia Night, a community-led evening of  fun in support of MitoCanada.

With trivia, laughs, prizes, raffles, a 50/50 draw and great company, it's a chance to have fun, bring people together, and make a meaningful difference for Canadians impacted by mitochondrial disease.

Not playing trivia? Spectator admission is just $5 at the door! Come enjoy the atmosphere, cheer on your friends and be part of a fun community night in support of MitoCanada.

Whether you are a trivia expert, a sideline supporter, or simply looking for a great night out,  everyone is welcome!

Trivia Night Event Details

📅 Saturday, September 26th, 2026

🕢 6:00 PM doors open, 6:30 PM trivia starts

📍 Creemore Station on the Green (10 Caroline St E, Creemore, ON) 

✨ Registration - $100 per team (Teams of 6-8 players)

 Team spots are limited and advance registration is required. Once teams are full, there will be no walk-in trivia participants.

To register:
📱 (705) 888-9902

Read More

Dinks for a Difference with YYC Pickleball

Serve, Rally and Make an Impact at Dinks for a Difference

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make the first-annual Dinks for a Difference Classic such a success.

Together, our pickleballers helped raise more than $3,800 in support of MitoCanada. All proceeds went towards supporting Canadians living with mitochondrial disease through education, support, awareness and transformational research.

A special thank you to the team at YYC Pickleball, especially owner Ivy Chan, for hosting this incredible fundraiser in support of MitoCanada. Thank you as well to Tonya Blazosek for her support with planning and the event and auction. Community fundraisers like this help raise awareness, inspire conversations about mitochondrial disease, and provide vital support for MitoCanada’s mission.⁠

Read More

Move4Mito

Let’s Move4Mito

Launching this Mitochondrial Disease Awareness Month (MDAM) in September, Move4Mito, an inclusive and accessible year-round initiative that brings people together through movement-based activities in support of Canadians living with mitochondrial disease.

Whether you walk, roll, run, ride, stretch, swim or find your own way to move, you can Move4Mito too, it’s easy!

Join and Support our Awareness Month Challenge

To kick off Move4Mito, we are inviting you to take part in the Move4Mito Awareness Month Challenge.
Together, our goal is to raise $5,000 in support of MitoCanada throughout the month of September.

Choose how to move! Whether you walk, roll, dance, stretch, or choose a different movement activity, every step helps raise awareness, build connection, and supports Canadians living with mito.

Our Awareness Month Challenge is perfect for those who want to complete a personal movement goal in the month of September!

Interested in Hosting a Move4Mito Event?

Complete the form below, and our Director of Donor and Community Engagement, Emily, will be in touch to help you plan your event.

Be Part of the Movement – Become a Sponsor 

Sponsor Benefits:

  • Brand Visibility & Recognition across all Move4Mito campaigns
  • Community Impact & Corporate Social Responsibility
  • Direct Engagement Opportunities

Read More

Mermaids for Mito

Make a Splash for Mitochondrial Disease

Join the mermaids of Oak Bay, BC for a friendly plunge to raise awareness and support for mitochondrial disease. The first annual Mermaids for Mito is a community-driven gathering where connection comes first. Whether you dip your toes in the water or simply enjoy the shoreline, everyone is welcome to come! Coffee and snacks will be provided, and an uplifting vibe with music and a bubble machine will keep you energized.

Event Details

📅 Saturday, May 23, 2026

🕚 11:00 AM

📍Beach at McMicking Park, off Radcliffe Lane, Oak Bay

  • Parking is limited, please consider biking or walking if possible
  • If driving: Park on Beach Drive or Newport and follow Hood Lane to Radcliffe Lane to the beach

🎟️ Event is free, donations are encouraged below in support of MitoCanada

👕 Show your support to those living with mitochondrial disease by wearing green. Don’t forget a towel! 

If you cannot join us, support our group by making a donation below! 

Read More

Awareness Month Flag Raising Initiative

Flag Raising Initiative for Mitochondrial Disease Awareness Month 

As part of the inaugural Mitochondrial Disease Awareness Month, the mitoCommunity is encouraged to bring awareness to those living with mitochondrial disease and MitoCanada in their communities. One meaningful way to do this is by requesting your local municipal building fly the MitoCanada flag during a week or the whole month of September.

If your community does not offer building lightings or proclamation requests, flying the MitoCanada flag is another powerful way to show support and spark conversation.

MitoCanada will connect with local municipalities where members of the mitoCommunity live to coordinate flag-raising opportunities across Canada. If you are interested in leading a flag-raising initiative in your community, please complete the contact form below.

Read More
© Copyright 2025 MitoCanada.
Go to Top