Rally for Paul: Artist and Friend in Crisis

Many of my New York City and LA friends know Paul Michael, a dear friend and a man who has devoted his life to the performing arts. He's written, produced, directed, and acted in countless productions over his 4 decades in the industry.

He's also a beloved coach and mentor to many of us.

When I'm working on a character for a show, so many Paulisms pop into my head. My all-time favorite is "Always play the positive."

This GoFundMe is me "Playing the positive" for Paul, as he has done for so many hundreds of people in his life.

Paul had a terrible fall about 8 months ago and fractured his skull, causing blood to pool on his brain. He was released from the ICU and 3 weeks later had to return due to seizures. He was medicated and his care team thought all was well.

Then a month ago, he collapsed on the street in LA and was rushed to the hospital. They found that his aortic valve needed replaced, which was likely the underlying cause of the fall.

He underwent emergency open-heart surgery and is now recuperating. It was a tough surgery and a grueling recovery that will take many months to heal.

Between missing months of work and paying his medical bills, Paul is in need of money to tide him over until he can start working again. It's difficult for him to ask for help to get back on his feet, so I've taken it upon myself to set up this GoFundMe.

If you are able, we would greatly appreciate any amount of money you can give toward his successful recovery. Together we can return some of the generosity that he has so freely given to us.