First of all, Daylon has expressed that the family wants to thank everyone for the incredible outpouring of love, prayers, and support. Your kind words, messages, and calls have meant more than they can express. It’s been a comfort to know so many are standing with Mitch and Leanne through this very difficult time.

A little over a week ago, Mitch thought he was dealing with a kidney infection or something viral. Unfortunately, things took a serious turn when he was admitted to the hospital with pneumonia on Wednesday, October 22. What was expected to be a short stay for IV antibiotics quickly became much more serious. Mitch’s condition declined rapidly, and he had to be placed on a ventilator Thursday night.

The doctors even prepared him for a possible transfer to Emory with ECMO on standby — a life support system used when the lungs and heart need help. Thankfully, after reviewing his scans and labs, Emory’s team decided he could stay at SGMC under close watch, which was a blessing and relief for the family.

Since then, Mitch has shown moments of incredible strength and steady progress. His oxygen needs have dropped significantly, his blood pressure has stabilized, and his kidneys are finally showing improvement — signs that his body is fighting hard to heal. He’s even been able to breathe on his own for short periods while they test how his lungs are recovering.

However, the road ahead remains uncertain. Earlier today, doctors shared that Mitch has also suffered an embolic stroke, which adds new challenges to his recovery. He’s still on the ventilator, and his pneumonia remains serious. The medical team continues to monitor him closely and adjust treatments as needed.

Through all of this, his wife Leanne has been by his side every step of the way — balancing hospital updates, phone calls, work, and the emotional weight of watching someone she loves so deeply go through this battle. Mitch is a contract laborer, which means he doesn’t have the benefits or paid time off that could help with medical and household bills during this time.

That’s why we’re turning to our community for help.

If you know Mitch and Leanne, you know they are the kind of people who would do anything for anyone — hardworking, humble, and full of love for their family and friends. Now, they need that love and support returned.

Every donation, no matter the size, will go directly toward helping cover Mitch’s medical expenses, travel, and their monthly bills while he remains hospitalized and during his recovery. Most importantly, your generosity allows Leanne to focus on being by his side without the added stress of financial worry.

Please continue to lift Mitch, Leanne, and their family up in your prayers. We’re praying for complete healing and trusting that brighter days are ahead.

From the bottom of our hearts — thank you for your love, support, and faith during this time.

If you prefer other ways to donate:

CashApp: $LeanneDouglas

Venmo: @Leanne-Douglas-4