Aid Michael's Fight Against Guillain Barre Syndrome

On August 13, 2024 my great-nephew Michael Viera was admitted to A.I duPont Childrens Hospital in Wilmington, Delaware. A day later he was diagnosed with Guillain Barre Syndrome. A horrible disease that causes your immune system to attack your muscles. In Michaels case, his legs became paralyzed. He could move his arms from the elbow down, his mouth could open, but only ¼ to ½ of an inch. His mother (my niece Danielle) along with the rest of the family were devastated,

Prior to this disease presenting itself, Michael complained of congestion, headaches , and at one point had a fever of 104 degrees. His mother took him to the Emergency Room at Bayhealth Kent General in Dover, DE. They called A.I duPont and did an over the phone consult. Michael was sent home. Knowing that something was horribly wrong, Danielle drove him to A.I. duPont the next day. One week later, and Michael is still there. He has been administered (3) rounds of immunoglobulin, which has halted the disease’s progression. He has been moved form Intensive Care, to Acute Care, and now is in the Rehab Center at A.I. duPont. Michael cannot walk. The Physical Therapy started today. He is now able to sit upright on the side of his hospital bed. His voice is coming back, but he is still limited on how far he can open his mouth. He has a feeding tube through his nose and into his stomach, and can now eat pureed food.

What am I telling you this for? Michael is only 14 years old !!!!!! His twin brothers Maddox and Mason are 12. Their father passed away a few years ago due to a heart condition. Danielle is an employee of the State of Delaware. Sure, she has insurance, but is out of vacation and sick time. She cannot apply for donated leave until she is out for (5) weeks per State Code. Michael will need Physical Therapy (5) days a week once discharged. Intensive Physical Therapy , and A.I. needs to have a guardian present. Our family is reaching out to you for help. This unfortunate health emergency will be taxing financially. Please continue with your prayers, texts, cards and well wishes. If you can donate, please consider doing so.

Thank you, Lisa Rochford