Living with mitochondrial disease means navigating a life filled with uncertainty, medical complexity, and physical limitations. For April and Jen, two women in the MitoAction community, the decision to bring a service dog into their lives became a turning point—one that offered not just support, but survival.
In this episode of Energy in Action, April and Jen share their powerful experiences with their service dogs, Bailey and Lexi. From the moment of choosing the right dog to the challenges and rewards of doing the training themselves, both women reveal how their dogs have become vital members of their medical team. Jen recalls how Lexi detected blood clots and infections before doctors could—ultimately saving her life. April opens up about how Bailey provides walking stability, physical grounding during anxiety attacks, and comfort through complex medical procedures.
They also discuss the real-world challenges of having a service dog in public spaces, the emotional depth of the bond they’ve formed, and the critical role these dogs play in managing not just their symptoms, but their dignity and independence. Jen also speaks candidly about the profound grief she and Lexi endured after the tragic loss of her wife—and how they’ve leaned on each other in the months since.
Their stories are a powerful reminder of the intelligence, intuition, and love service dogs can bring—and the strength that comes from finding the right partner to walk beside you through illness and beyond.
Resources and Ways to Connect
Learn More About MitoAction:
PARENTS AS RARE - EPISODE 046 Family Coping, Communication, & Mental Health Resources - Dr. Jennifer Young, Postdoctoral Scholar, Biomedical Ethics - Stanford University ...
PARENTS AS RARE - EPISODE 065 Tara Zier - Stiff Person Syndrome Research Foundation and Finding Your Purpose Tara Zier is a rare disease...
Learn about our MitoSantas program and meet head Elf – Jennifer Schwartzott!