Support Groups

Peer Support Network

Peer support can be valuable for people impacted by brain injury, and more specifically stroke, including family and caregivers. It can enhance emotional, physical, and mental well-being.

March of Dimes Canada recognizes the value of making peer support available to all individuals impacted by stroke living in Canada. That is why we have created the After Stroke Peer Support Network, to facilitate connections between peer support groups across Canada.

Through this Peer Support Network, we aim to optimize engagement, collaboration, and impact among these groups and their participants.

If you are looking for a group to join, view our directory of peer support groups below.

Smiling group of support group participants

Peer Support Benefits

Research suggests that peer support offers many benefits:

Connects people who have similar experiences
Provides opportunities to learn from others’ experiences
Supports people to gain knowledge and confidence to make their own decisions
Reduces depression and anxiety
Increases socialization
Reduces loneliness
Improves motivation to deal with life’s changes
Provides hope and emotional strength

Types of Peer Support Groups

The After Stroke Peer Support Network welcomes many different types of peer support groups:

Groups operated by March of Dimes Canada
Groups managed by other organizations
“Grassroots” independently-run groups
Groups that meet in person
Groups that meet virtually
Groups that have well-structured programming
Groups that keep it simple (i.e., socializing over a coffee)

Ready to join our vibrant community of support?

Click the button below to search for a peer support group in your area.

View Directory

After Stroke Peer Support Toolkit cover. Laughing group of adults sitting in a circle.

Looking for more resources related to starting and running a peer support group?

View Resources

Already a member of a peer support group, but looking for more information or support?

Email Us

What are people saying about our peer support groups?

We frequently hear from members of our peer support groups about the positive impact that participation has had on their recovery, overall health, and well-being.

“The support group has helped me see my stroke and my experience in a different light.”

– Shamendree Naidoo

“I found the MODC online groups kept me involved, exchanging ideas, recounting experiences in supportive settings where each stroke survivor is heard and validated knowing they are not alone. These groups offer a safe space where I can share my journey and connect with others’ also on their own road-to-recovery. Hearing others share their experiences helps me to keep going in mine.”

– Don J. (Toronto, Ontario)

“March of Dimes has so many different resources, and they can connect you to those resources in the community.”

– Teresa Geary

“March of Dimes Canada’s virtual stroke groups have been a life saver for me. It has been such an empowering experience to listen and hear what other stroke survivors have been through and know you are not alone. It gives me motivation to continue on my stroke recovery journey. It has created a feeling of togetherness, reduction of social isolation and an opportunity to meet people with similar experience all over Canada.”

– W. Lynch (Brampton, Ontario)

“Becoming a member of the March of Dimes Canada support group has had a positive impact on my life. Since joining, I have been able to provide encouragement and inspiration to others who have suffered stroke. By doing this, my own self-esteem has improved.”

– E. Godkin (Stratford, Prince Edward Island)

“Every day in every way, I get better and better. Hope is what our group is all about.”
– J. Winter (Oshawa, Ontario)

From the moment I joined, I felt a strong sense of belonging and understanding. The group provided a safe and welcoming space where I could openly share my thoughts and feelings without judgment. The support and encouragement are invaluable. I learned that I am not alone in my struggles, and together, we can overcome obstacles and grow stronger.”

D. Bolaos

Coquitlam, British Columbia

Do you lead a peer support group for people impacted by stroke or brain injury?

Are you interested in starting a new group?

Connect with our team to explore how we can help you to support survivors and caregivers in your community. Call 1-888-540-6666 or send us an email at peersupport@marchofdimes.ca.