#MikeJordanStrong-My ALS Journey
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Mike and Sandy met in 1st grade and were sweethearts by 7th grade. Shortly after High School, Mike and Sandy got married, and have been married for the past 42 years. They were blessed with 2 children: Matt, who also works at Missouri Valley Steel (MVS), and Katie who lives in Seattle working in Cancer Research. Mike and Sandy also have 2 grandchildren, Matt’s son Jordyn, and Katie’s daughter Emma. Mike and Sandy are so proud of the life that they have built together, and the memories made.
Mike has always been a very active person, whether it was helping people pour driveways, roofing, and remodel their homes or garages. Mike began battling shortness of breath and weakness on the left side. The first concerning symptom happened the spring of 2017. Mike went out for a motorcycle ride and realized that he couldn’t hold his head up with his helmet on. Gradually he found himself unable to do the physical work he enjoyed doing. He went from doctor to doctor looking for answers. Tests began ruling out different diagnosis until July of 2019, in which a Neurologist pinpointed the issue. Mike was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also known as ALS.
ALS is a brutal disease that robs people of their muscle strength and control. Some symptoms include a difficulty in swallowing, breathing, slurred speech, muscle cramps, and an increase in trips and dropping things. Due to the various symptoms and degeneration of muscles, the life expectancy for those with ALS is bleak, with an average expectancy of 3-5 years.
Currently there is no cure for ALS. Even with treatments, Mike will eventually require a wheel chair, lifting devices, ventilators, nursing care, and other medical equipment. On average medical costs for ALS could exceed $65,000 a year. Additional costs include the necessary remodeling to their house to accommodate a wheelchair.
Mike is a dedicated man, whether it be to work, his marriage, family or his church. Mike gives it 100%. His patience, selflessness, compassion and determination define who he is.
Mike has always been a very active person, whether it was helping people pour driveways, roofing, and remodel their homes or garages. Mike began battling shortness of breath and weakness on the left side. The first concerning symptom happened the spring of 2017. Mike went out for a motorcycle ride and realized that he couldn’t hold his head up with his helmet on. Gradually he found himself unable to do the physical work he enjoyed doing. He went from doctor to doctor looking for answers. Tests began ruling out different diagnosis until July of 2019, in which a Neurologist pinpointed the issue. Mike was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also known as ALS.
ALS is a brutal disease that robs people of their muscle strength and control. Some symptoms include a difficulty in swallowing, breathing, slurred speech, muscle cramps, and an increase in trips and dropping things. Due to the various symptoms and degeneration of muscles, the life expectancy for those with ALS is bleak, with an average expectancy of 3-5 years.
Currently there is no cure for ALS. Even with treatments, Mike will eventually require a wheel chair, lifting devices, ventilators, nursing care, and other medical equipment. On average medical costs for ALS could exceed $65,000 a year. Additional costs include the necessary remodeling to their house to accommodate a wheelchair.
Mike is a dedicated man, whether it be to work, his marriage, family or his church. Mike gives it 100%. His patience, selflessness, compassion and determination define who he is.
Organizer and beneficiary
Tracy Reineke
Organizer
Carter Lake, IA
Sandy Jordan
Beneficiary