Mike's Battle with Cancer and Heart Failure

Hi, my name is Jenna. I am fundraising for my father, Mike. My dad, Michael Paszek, is a relentless fighter. He has been through more than most people, but he has never given up. In 2005, he was diagnosed with advanced stage 3 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, where he underwent chemotherapy. He had then been in remission for four and a half years when we found out the cancer had come back. In 2010, he was re-diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma. After undergoing more chemotherapy, he then had a stem cell transplant which was a yearlong process. Thankfully, it was successful and he has been cancer-free ever since. However, when he was originally diagnosed with cancer, they also found he had a heart condition called Atrial Fibrillation (Afib).

In January of 2022, my dad was admitted to the hospital requiring emergency surgery for blood clots. He was in the hospital from January through April. He eventually was able to come home, but his heart condition made it difficult for him to care for himself, so my mom and I became his full-time caregivers. After a few months he had to be re-hospitalized July through August, again coming home with my mom and I caring for him. Finally, he was re-hospitalized on November 1, 2022 and has been in the hospital to this day. He has now been in the hospital for a stretch of 312 consecutive days, fighting for his life.

On February 16, 2023, my dad underwent an open heart surgery to address the problems the Afib was causing and was in the cardiac intensive care unit (CICU) for a month recovering. The surgery proved to be successful. However as time went on, multiple health issues and other problems arose, structural problems with his heart and functional problems with his kidneys, complicating his continued recovery. He was diagnosed with Congestive Heart Failure. He could not endure another open heart surgery or a heart transplant. A second heart valve issue arose but was only treatable in clinical trials, which Mike did not qualify for. His doctors explored every possibility, but without FDA approval for a medical device that could further his recovery, he has not been able to fully recover from his condition, which is terminal. The doctors now say he doesn’t have much longer with us.

We are fundraising to cover the costs of my dad's medical bills including hospital stays, surgeries, and general health care, travel expenses for visiting him in Boston where he has been receiving his treatment, and some home repairs. Our funds are completely depleted due to the medical bills and travel stays. We are also raising money to create a memorial fund in his name.

This situation has been incredibly heartbreaking for my mom and I. My dad is the most important person in our lives, he is our rock. He has been my best friend, coach, number one supporter, and so much more. I am eternally grateful for his unwavering love and support. Your contribution to his fundraiser would be an honor and deeply appreciated.

Thank you for your support and kindness

If you have any questions or would like any more information, please feel free to contact me.