Help Michael Heal and Thrive Again

My favorite childhood story is one I tell often and to anyone who will listen. It also makes my brother cringe. I know he’s tired of hearing it- but I love to antagonize him.

When Michael was born we went to my Grandma’s house so everyone could meet him. I vividly remember sitting on the front porch while holding my brand new baby brother. Family would approach- hoping to get to see and hold the newest addition to our family. I wasn’t having any of that. I would hiss and tell them, “My Baby!”

That is the type of lifelong bond my brother and I have. That beautiful little baby boy grew up to become the best friend I could have ever imagined. Through thick and thin, Mike has carried me in through so many trials and tribulations. In every challenging season of my life my brother SHOWED UP!! He has done the same for countless friends and family members.

Now, he needs our help.

Michael was the recipient of the gift of life from a hero donor on 7/21. He was sick. Very sick. I was told that he had the highest MELD score that OSU has ever transplanted. I was also told he was the sickest patient that they had ever transplanted. MELD scores are computed by data from labs and are used to determine just how sick an individual is. Michael was transplanted at a 58. If you click this link you will understand the gravity of this situation. Somehow, by the grace of God- he made it through the surgery. We were told by Dr. Black that if he had not received his gift he would not have made it another 24 hours.

Brohan will be coming to live with me during the transition period after hospital and before getting back to a normal life. We will be moving before the end of the month to ensure he has a dedicated space to heal. In our current setup he would not have a bedroom and would be recovering on a couch in our living room. We need to ensure his accessibility needs are met during the recovery period. He will need a stable abode, a bed, accessibility equipment, specific nutrition, dialysis, transportation to OSU 3x a week minimum, physical and occupational therapy and things to make life feel normal again. Additionally- and most importantly he has his family to support and we have not been able to meet those obligations. Perhaps- this might be the most important part.

Due to the nature of this situation this period of time will require me to take an unpaid leave and provide 24 hour care until it is no longer needed.

I have applied for disability for him, but because he has not been cognitive enough to call them and follow up we are lost in the system at this time. I hope and pray that this will change.

We would be most grateful if you would consider throwing a few bucks our way to help get situated and help keep Brother from going into financial arrears.

I live for the day that Michael can get on an airplane with me and we can take “the trip” we’ve been talking about since mom passed. We have so many hugs and thanks and love to give!

I am continuously praying for Michael’s recovery. I am continuously praying for our support system. We would not be here without you.