Circles NWA

Over the last several years, Michael has become an integral part of the Genesis Fayetteville community. He's poured his heart into his role, starting first as a volunteer, working his way to part-time, and more recently becoming full-time staff. Additionally, he took the brave step of becoming a Circle Leader with Circles NWA, setting and pursuing big goals for his future. Despite his dedication, resilience, and hope, there's one goal that has remained elusive for Michael: achieving a healthier life through weight loss surgery.

Michael has been a big guy most of his life. While he was very active in sports, several injuries have taken a toll on his body, resulting in chronic pain and making it increasingly difficult for him to participate in the activities he loves, like playing sports with his niece and nephews. Chronic pain has become part of Michael’s everyday life.

Michael has tried repeatedly to pursue weight loss surgery but has hit barrier after barrier. First it was COVID that caused a delay, then changes in Medicaid coverage forced him to change his plans with the eventual loss of Medicaid altogether seeming like the final straw. While he has obtained new insurance, the weight loss surgery is not a covered service like it had been on Medicaid. But this goal is so important to Michael’s future that we know the door is still open.

We are reaching out to our community for support, asking you to rally around Michael to help him achieve his goal. We are seeking financial support to cover the cash price of weight loss surgery at a local hospital: $20,750 for the Duodenal Switch procedure and $4,500 for initial/post-op visits and pathology, plus fees (cost breakdown detailed below). While this is a big number, we are confident that we can come together to make this goal a reality for Michael.

Weight loss surgery isn't just about shedding pounds for Michael; it's about reclaiming his life, addressing chronic pain, and reducing the risk of serious health complications in the future. Michael finds deep fulfillment in his work at Genesis Fayetteville, and he loves the opportunities he has to provide support to those who find themselves in circumstances reminiscent of his own journey. Michael’s own words describe this best:

“I go home every day in excruciating physical pain but my soul is full.”

We need your support. Let’s help Michael turn his dreams of weight loss surgery into a reality and show him that he's not alone in this journey towards a better and healthier life.

On behalf of Michael’s Circle Allies and the Circles Community, we thank you for taking the time to read Michael's story!

–Jon, Hollen, Kedrien (Michael's Allies), Michael

Detailed Cost Breakdown:

Total: $26,000

Note: Circles NWA is a tax-exempt, nonprofit organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code. Donations given to this GoFundMe are tax-deductible.

Hi! My name is Elizabeth Houle, and I am an Ally with cohort 2. This is a picture of me (on the left) with my Circle Leader Chelsea (center) and co-Ally Sara (right). I recently heard that the Circles NWA staff has a wonderful opportunity to attend the national Circles USA conference together as a team in October in Orlando, and we want to help them raise the funds they need to get there!

At this conference, they will get to meet people from other Circles chapters across the country, hear great speakers, and even get to lead a breakout session to teach others how to host a Cliff Effect event.

Circles NWA received a small grant to fund the attendance 2 of their newest staff members (and recent Circles graduates) Carmena and Shaletha. Let's help them raise the additional $5,000 they need so that the full team can attend!

Big news: I have gotten us a $1,000 matching grant for this--so all donations will be doubled up to that amount!

Funds raised will go to conference registration fees, airfare, lodging, rental car, and food.

Thank you for supporting this fantastic Circles team!

--Elizabeth