My name is Michael Smith, and I've spent my life working to provide a comfortable life for my family. I am a father of 3, with the youngest being 14, a husband of 28 years, and a self-made business owner, which has always been my dream.

Back in April, I was suddenly rushed to the hospital in excruciating pain and with extreme shortness of breath. I thought it was the end. After extensive tests, I was told I had a pulmonary embolism in the branch of my lung and clots in my leg. With blood thinners and amazing doctors, I hoped to make a full recovery, but it'd take time. Fast forward to October, I was informed I was misdiagnosed for 12 years with arthritis when I really had Lupus, and they found a mass in my lung. All of this has taken a serious toll on my body. In turn, I had to close my business, which I worked so hard to build, in order to focus the remainder of my energy on healing. Supporting my family has always been my greatest mission, and knowing I can't has been the hardest pill to swallow thus far. I recognize I can't do this alone. Going forward, I have many appointments with specialists and new medications I'll have to be on, to which I humbly ask for your help. No donation is too small, and a share would be greatly appreciated. The road to recovery is still long, but I'm fighting with everything I have left.