Recovery From Open Heart Surgery - Mike X McKinlay

Mike is about to undergo open heart surgery and needs our collective help for his post-operative care.

We are the team of Sofie and Tristin, and Mike has played a huge part in both of our lives. We have started this campaign and are reaching out to all of you to raise funds so he can support himself after his upcoming massive life-saving surgery.

At 6 AM on March 24th, 2022, Mike was forced awake with a strange feeling in his chest and abdomen. Sensing something was very wrong he drove to the nearest hospital and was immediately admitted for what would become an unexpected nine-day stay. For the next week Mike remained hospitalized and continued with his tests at St. Joseph's Hospital in Toronto because the doctors still had many unanswered concerns.

After all the blood draws, CAT scans, ECG's, MRI's, ultrasounds and angiograms Mike was finally diagnosed with Cardiovascular Disease (malfunctioning heart valve), an Ascending Aortic Aneurysm (bulging aorta) and Coronary Artery Disease (blockages in two arteries). His Cardiologist explained that his best chance for survival would require open heart surgery. Mike was released from the hospital with a dozen new prescriptions and many new questions.

This past year has not been an easy one for him. Since his discharge, he's had several setbacks that have required his return to the hospital. High blood pressure, low oxygen levels, shortness of breath and overall weakness have affected his daily life. He has also developed Gout in his left knee and was most recently diagnosed with Os Trigonum Syndrome which causes serious pain if he walks for an extended period. His scariest moment so far occurred shortly after dental surgery when a prescribed pain medication caused a severe reaction with one of his heart medications, forcing him back to the ER.

His next appointment with his cardiac surgeon is coming up very soon and will likely be the 'Set A Date' meeting. The required valve replacement and bypass surgeries both have very high success rates while aortic aneurysm repair is a lot more complex. Then comes his post-op recovery period and that will be another challenge. He will need observed care for the first few weeks as he won't be permitted to perform even the most basic tasks. Driving is forbidden for six to eight weeks and he should hold off any return to work for three months, maybe longer. He's made arrangements for places to stay, transportation to the surgeons for follow-ups, incision care, meals, laundry, etc. As you can imagine, this will have a significant impact on his life and income.

We've started this campaign now to raise funds so he can breathe a little easier as his surgery date approaches. It's our hope that he can focus exclusively on his recovery and not have to worry about his financial survival afterward. Money raised will go directly toward his daily living expenses, medications, personal blood pressure, oxygen and heart monitors, grocery deliveries, backup travel expenses and of course, the unknown.

We will also be setting up a central Facebook Group where Mike's family and friends can all check in, get updates, leave messages and share stories or photos. Additionally, Mike has created a YouTube Playlist if anyone wants to learn more about his condition, the upcoming surgeries or his recovery process.

If you know Mike at all, you'll know he's very passionate about all the people and shared experiences in his life. Maybe you remember him as Pinky, as DJ Michael X, Mike McKinlay or simply as Mike. He could have ridden BMX with you back in the day or recently fixed your bike. Did he DJ your favourite clubs, teach you how to skydive or happily deliver you a pizza? However you know may him, in one way or another he has found his way into your life, and hopefully into your heart. Right now he needs our help, scarily, because of his heart. If you or someone in your circle would like to help us reach our goal, please join Mike's team. Donate what you can, then share this message with everybody you know.

Tristin and I thank you all for your interest, concern and support. More importantly, Mike thanks you. Wholeheartedly.

Big hugs!

Sofie and Tristin.