Michael 's Fight Against MS
Donation protected
As many of you know, Michael was diagnosed with MS at the age of 17, one month before graduating from high school. He has been a champ for the last 20 years, complaining little about the disease that has virtually stolen his livelihood. 
Trying to remain in the mainstream he has been surrounded by friends who have forced him to remain active. Thank You All!
The last few years have become harder to handle. The equipment he has been issued is now outdated and no longer fills his needs as his disease progresses. Unfortunately, it cannot take him to all the places he would like to go.
New hope is on the horizon though! Mike has been evaluated by a phenomenal physical therapist and recommendations have been made that will not only make life a little easier for him and his caregivers, but will also enable him to stand. This one small task of standing, will relieve pressure on his back and help maintain strength in his legs. When he was trying out the new wheelchair, he was actually able to see what was on the top shelf of the pantry (yum...cookies!) and open the microwave! Things we never even think about. His nephew was so shocked to see how tall his uncle was, because he has only seen him laying down or in his chair. In addition he has had a home evaluation by a therapist and there are more recommendations which should help.
Of course, all this comes with a price. Medicare will only pay for the basic wheelchair. Medical Assistance has rejected his claim for assistance (as of this writing). The current estimate out of pocket expense to Michael for just the modified wheelchair is $17,000+. There will be additional expenses for a hospital bed, transfer boards, modified bathroom, etc.
He has not given up yet - He's Still Fighting - Won't you please help him in this fight? Please forward to your facebook friends and family, Please give what you can, because.........
Trying to remain in the mainstream he has been surrounded by friends who have forced him to remain active. Thank You All!
The last few years have become harder to handle. The equipment he has been issued is now outdated and no longer fills his needs as his disease progresses. Unfortunately, it cannot take him to all the places he would like to go.
New hope is on the horizon though! Mike has been evaluated by a phenomenal physical therapist and recommendations have been made that will not only make life a little easier for him and his caregivers, but will also enable him to stand. This one small task of standing, will relieve pressure on his back and help maintain strength in his legs. When he was trying out the new wheelchair, he was actually able to see what was on the top shelf of the pantry (yum...cookies!) and open the microwave! Things we never even think about. His nephew was so shocked to see how tall his uncle was, because he has only seen him laying down or in his chair. In addition he has had a home evaluation by a therapist and there are more recommendations which should help.
Of course, all this comes with a price. Medicare will only pay for the basic wheelchair. Medical Assistance has rejected his claim for assistance (as of this writing). The current estimate out of pocket expense to Michael for just the modified wheelchair is $17,000+. There will be additional expenses for a hospital bed, transfer boards, modified bathroom, etc.
He has not given up yet - He's Still Fighting - Won't you please help him in this fight? Please forward to your facebook friends and family, Please give what you can, because.........
Organizer
Michael Rice
Organizer
Prince Frederick, MD
