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Pinch hit for Mike!

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Father to four beautiful girls, Michael’s sudden and serious illness has created a devastating situation for his family. Mike, to his friends and family, is an active member of his community. An athletic guy, he plays softball and golf and works at a popular bowling alley in Oxford. Mike’s known for his big red beard, love for laughing, and care for his family and friends. He’s always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone. 
On Wednesday, March 3, Michael wasn’t feeling well so his wife, Dana, took him to urgent care. From there, things quickly went downhill: an ambulance rushed him to the closest hospital where he was taken directly to the ICU. That night, things were dire. The doctors emergently intubated Michael and placed a balloon pump to help his heart. He was placed on life support and quickly transferred to a bigger hospital with more specialists. 
Mike was experiencing a Graves’ thyroid storm. A grim situation made worse by an unexpected stroke and brain bleed. By his side, Dana would call family to update them as much as possible. Due to COVID, visitations were severely limited. 
Mike remained intubated for an additional 12 days; Dana by his side and her mother staying with their 4 young daughters. Mike’s parents, 3 sisters, extended family, and friends anxiously awaited news of his progress. 
Twelve excruciating days later, Michael was deemed safe to extubate and woke up. Concerned for his mental state, Dana asked, “Do you know my name? Do you know who I am?” 
Michael shook his head no. 
Five seconds went by when he smiled and whispered, “Dana.” ❤️
Michael is blessedly on his way to recovery. The road will be long - Mike is still unable to move on his own. Dana has lost her job due to her need to be with Mike and their girls. The progression of his treatment and future needs are yet to be discovered. 
Please help us support them during this difficult time. We are hoping to raise enough money to provide for their monthly expenses while Mike recovers and Dana tends to their family. Every dollar counts. Please share this. We don’t know what challenges lie ahead for this beautiful family. We do know that Mike is a fighter and will do whatever it takes to get back to his family and his life. #Gravesthyroidstormsurvivor #thyroidstorm #comasurvivor #strokesurvivor #strokerecovery #father #loved #pinchhit
4Mike 
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    Co-organizers (3)

    Jen Decker
    Organizer
    Oxford, MI
    Dana Emch
    Beneficiary
    Riann Emch
    Co-organizer

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