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Gutsy Peer Support

Crohn’s and Colitis Canada's Gutsy Peer Support initiative is an email based mentoring and support program for Canadians affected by Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. This program matches experienced individuals (mentors) who have been living with Crohn’s or colitis, or their caregivers, with individuals who are newly diagnosed, facing a change in their diagnosis or life situation, or are caring for someone diagnosed with Crohn’s or colitis (mentees). 
 
Our trained volunteers can provide long term support or can be available to answer a few questions. Typically matches can be made within 2-3 business days and all communication takes place via email.

Highlights of the Gutsy Peer Support program:
 
  • The program provides one-on-one advice on how to deal with aspects of everyday living with Crohn’s or colitis - including work, school, relationships, stress/anxiety, and travel.
  • Mentors offer emotional support by showing people impacted by Crohn's or colitis that they're not alone.
  • The program does not provide professional counselling or medical advice.

How does the program work?

Interested individuals should complete the application form below. Our staff will review your request and will match you with an appropriate individual within a few days, should you qualify for our program. You can communicate with your mentor as much or as little as you need, but please keep in mind our mentors are volunteers.

Please note, this program does not replace professional counselling or advice from your medical specialists. If you are in crisis or require more immediate assistance, please call 911 or visit your nearest emergency department.

Click here to complete an application for support.


 

  • Canada has among the highest incidence rates of Crohn's and colitis in the world.
  • 1 in 140 Canadians lives with Crohn’s or colitis.
  • Families new to Canada are developing these diseases for the first time.
  • Incidence of Crohn’s in Canadian kids under 10 has doubled since 1995.
  • People are most commonly diagnosed before age 30.