Michael Trousdale

Hello,

My name is Christy, and I am a nurse at Mission Valley Heights Surgery Center. My co-workers and I are fund raising for our friend, colleague, husband/father, and one super caring nurse named Michael Trousdale.

Michael is the kind of guy you want to work with. He appreciates good humor, exciting sports events, surfing and baked goods. He appreciates his wife and her cooking. He enjoys time spent with his son, especially if there could be junk food involved. Michael has always enjoyed surfing in both California and Hawaii. Hawaii is where he met and married his wife Mari, and where their son spent most of his childhood before moving about 8 years ago to San Diego.

He and his lovely wife have been together for 20 years; they have an 18-year son who recently graduated from high school and has started college. Although his wife works outside the home, her paychecks cannot sustain a mortgage and the high cost of living in San Diego. Michael as a registered nurse with both hospital and outpatient experience; as such, he is the primary support for his family.

Why does this matter? Why is that important? In July 2023 Michael was diagnosed with a brain tumor. The tumor was located near the bottom of his brain behind his eyes. He has not been able to work since July and has had 2 procedures: to 1st investigate the tumor and the 2nd to remove it.

Unfortunately, most but not all the tumor was recently removed, but parts of the tumor were in areas too sensitive for full removal. Since late August 2023, Michael has been minimally responsive on a ventilator. He will soon have another surgery to place a tracheostomy tube to help him be more comfortable while breathing. Although they have good insurance, the bills for other things continue. The future for Michael is very uncertain and will take time to sort through.

Michael’s wife is now supporting Michael every day at the hospital, plus being there for their son and making sure the mortgage and lights stay current. They have no family in the area, but she is steadfastly working to ensure that everything is in order.

Our surgery center works to support them. However, they will need far more than his colleagues can provide. Michael is one of the good guys. He is kind with patients, assisting them to prepare for surgery. This man has given to his community as a nurse and caregiver; we miss his presence at work and his family misses his place at home.

Could you please help Michael and his family with whatever donations you see fit? And just as helpful can you please share this on all your social media accounts with everyone you know.

Thank you in advance from his family and colleagues at MVHSC.