Medical Fundraiser: For the love of Mike

A FEW STEPS ARE NOW IMPOSSIBLE

For the love of Mike...

Michael Paul Oesch: Beloved school bus driver - Captain Mike (and the Pirate School Bus of Knowledge; Passionate talented musician (AKA “MOesch”); Respected Toronto Beaches baseball umpire (25 years); Generous volunteer; Ardent gardener and cook; Loving son, husband, and grandfather. –And an Accomplished Walker, walking over 12,000 km across Canada, , between 2002 and 2005.

On October 13, 2022, after Michael received his fourth COVID-19 vaccine booster shot, he began experiencing difficulties with walking. Over the next two years, his neurological issues worsened to the point where he could no longer stay at home. He is now in long-term care at St. Joseph’s Villa in Dundas, Ontario, bedridden, with limited movement in his legs and his arms and hands also progressing poorly, making it hard for him to function.

However, Michael has come to terms with his situation, stating, “All I want to do is live each day in gratitude…” This mindset reflects how he is coping with his dramatically changed life.

A key reason why we are continuing this GoFundMe campaign is that we simply don't know what Michael may need in the future:

The spasms in Michael’s body continue to increase as his motor function decreases. Fortunately, after searching for over a year, we found a massage therapist willing to visit the long-term care home to treat Michael. The relief it provides to him has proven invaluable; therefore, we hope to have sessions once a week, but massage therapy is costly (and we don’t have health insurance).

Additionally, Michael expressed a need for a skilled physiotherapist (physio provided by the home is rudimentary at best) and an electric wheelchair that can tilt and be navigated with a simple hand gesture. As Michael’s ability to use his body declines, we will need to identify other items that may improve his quality of life. These challenges are some of the reasons your generous donation can make a significant difference.

Therefore, our ongoing goal is to raise funds to help cover some of these expenses, and we are thankful for any contribution you can make

As a wise person once said, it takes courage to face each difficulty. Michael shows extraordinary courage every day in facing his greatest challenge of his life, and we are deeply humbled and grateful for the love, support, and community spirit that has emerged in response to this life-altering challenge.

Sincerely, Michael and Saskia