In Support of Michael (Mikey) Berman

Hello Friends,

Read this original link for the full update and more photos of of Michael Berman. Thank you for opening your hearts to send prayers, positive thoughts, and donations for Linda's son, Michael Berman (called "Mikey" by his mama). Every prayer and positive thought sent his way is helping! Here are some photos and a summary to date on Mikey's condition:

In January, 2021, Mikey was treated for what they thought was a long bout of bronchitis, but when treatment for that did not help, he went in for further assessment. At that time, doctors suspected he had pneumonia. When treatment for that did not seem to help him breathe any easier, they did some chest x-rays and saw things of greater concern. They suggested he go into ER. That was February 17th, 2021.

While in ER, treatment for pneumonia eventually lead to the discovery of B-Cell Lymphoma. That's cancer. Cancer is a scary word, but we understand this kind of cancer is treatable. Mikey was put on a ventilator for several weeks as he struggled to breathe on his own. The mass found in his chest and enlarged lymph nodes were putting pressure on his airway. The machines were helping him breathe. He was transferred back and forth to different hospitals for different equipment and procedures; always in the dedicated care and support of the medical providers who worked with him around the clock in ICU. Mikey had been in critical condition for weeks. It was so hard for Linda not to be able to be with her son. He could not have visitors at that time.



Linda and her fiancé Tim, flew from their home in Arizona to the house in Castro Valley on February 26th, to be nearby. Since then they have both been doing deep cleaning, setting up Mikey's room for his return, helping to care for Mikey's dogs, and expressing deep gratitude to Mikey's roommate, Jake. Jake has been instrumental in helping connect Linda with the medical updates. He's been a communicator, a support person, a brother and an unsung hero at this time. Even when he could not yet have visitors, Linda and Jake dropped off things to help make Mikey comfortable - his blanket and pillow, lotion, Chapstick, toothbrush, a stuffed bunny and card with pictures of his dogs (his babies). All of these little things, along with your supportive words and prayers have made a big difference!

We are happy to report that in the last few days, good process has been made! Mikey is no longer on the ventilator! He is now learning how to breathe on his own and beginning to take the small steps needed to function independently. On Thursday, 3/11/21, Mikey got to finally have visitors! Linda and Jake were with him when he moved to a reclining chair! This is a big deal! He has been laying down for 3 weeks! Mikey wrote that sitting up had really lifted his spirits. Mikey's vocal chords are roughed up from the breathing tubes being in so long. He is unable to talk at this point, but he was able to communicate through writing and some signs. He is currently getting physical therapy to learn how to swallow again. Once he can swallow, he may be able to have ice chips or a drink of water, which is his motivation. He is so parched and thirsty from the tubes. He is receiving nutrition though a nasal tube at this time. He is still hooked up to several lines and given medication and equipment to help remove mucus or fluid in his airways, and to help reduce his anxiety.



Linda finally did the mothering she has longed to do. She gave Mikey a cloth bath and then rubbed his skin with lotion. She touched him gently and talked to him to soothe him. There is nothing like a Mama's touch! Jake sat with Mikey and they watched a movie together, just like they do at home. That little bit of normalcy seems to have made a big difference for Mikey. He is feeling more alert and uplifted, which helps with his healing. Linda and Jake stayed until the last visiting hour.



Linda and Tim are flying home today, 3/12/21, for a short time. Linda is due for her second vaccination this weekend and Tim has his first vaccination scheduled, as well as a doctor appointment. They will check on their home, take care of bills, and tend to their own self-care needs so they can fill up and return to Mikey next week with lots more love and care to give. In the meantime, Jake and Mikey's close friend Mitchell, are with him today while he gets his second cycle of chemo, and will continue to be the touch stones for him until Linda can return.



Mikey still has a long road to full recovery, but what a warrior he is! Your prayers, monetary or in-kind donations and support are helping him and his Mama, Linda get through this medical crisis. You donations will:

- help provide Mikey with a financial buffer. He has been, and will be out of work for some time. Funds would help cover his food, bills, any additional costs related to his follow-up medical treatment and any unforeseen needs.

- help cover transportation costs for Linda to travel and lodging to be with Mikey.

- help pay for food and pet care for Mikey's two dogs while he's hospitalized.

 We will continue to share updates here on the Go-Fund-Me page. Mikey will need all the support he can get while he is unable to work. Please share this link with others who you feel may open their hearts. Thank you for the love.