On 12/20/23, Michael was involved in a horrifying rock climbing accident that nearly took his life. Michael fell 50 feet before landing on a ledge, where he broke his back (C1 and L5), sacrum, pelvis and right ankle. He then fell another 40 feet before being caught by his climbing partner below. Miraculously, Michael did not sustain any head or internal injuries and was air lifted to Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs, California where he will be recovering for an indefinite amount of time.

Michael is expected to make a full recovery, however, he will require physical therapy and will be unable to walk for several months. Insurance will not cover all of his medical expenses or medical transport to get back to Pennsylvania from California.

The funds raised will be used to cover Michael's medical expenses and aftercare costs. Michael will be unable to return to work until he has completely recovered.