Support Scott

Scott needs our help.

You may recognize Scott if you are a fan of live music. Scott and his twin brother Mike formed the band "Empty Pockets " and have performed at and supported countless local events. And if you have witnessed "Empty Canvas " you know how much talent these brothers possess. Performing is a labor of love for this family. Every live performance I have ever attended is like a McMath family reunion. I know Scott from the class of '84.

Scott is married to Shelli Wixtrom, one of the kindest people you will ever meet. Shelli is the kind of friend you consider yourself blessed to have.

Shelli retired from Midland Public Schools, teaching at Northeast and Midland High. Ask her former students about "Mrs. Wixtrom (Anderson)," and you will surely hear a story of a loving, supportive teacher who made an impact. She and Scott have been married for 15 "blissful" years (Shelli's quotes, of course).

The love that these two possess and share with others is #goals. Not even an intense Lions/Packers rivalry can shake this bond.

This is where their story takes a turn. Two years ago, Scott and his twin Mike were diagnosed with Interstitial Pulmonary Fibrosis, or IPF. This is a lung disease that causes scarring within the lung tissue. Thickened, stiff tissue makes it more difficult for the lungs to exchange oxygen. IPF is progressive, and there is no cure. And while newer medications have been known to slow the progression in some patients, Scott could not tolerate them. While some with IPF live with the disease for 6-7 years, most require a lung transplant within 3-5 years. Thankfully Mike is finding success with these medications, but Scott was thrown another curveball.

Scott contracted Covid in August, which exacerbated his symptoms' progression and significantly impacted his lung function. He now depends on oxygen as he awaits genetic testing results to be put on the lung transplant list. The McMath family is no stranger to this disease. Scott and Mike lost both their mother and brother Greg to IPF.

While waiting for the transplant process, we want to help remove some of the financial stress involved. This journey will include trips to various doctors, co-pays, out-of-town lodging and other travel expenses, medical supplies, deductibles, and wear and tear on their vehicles. While on oxygen, Scott can only perform on a limited basis, but continues to share his talents as often as he can.

Scott and Shelli also have three children. Quinn is a freshman at Berklee School of Music in Boston. Dylan (Anderson) is in New Mexico, and Sonja (Anderson) is in New York. Family is everything to Shelli and Scott. Anything we can do to help this family see each other as often as possible is top priority. This transplant journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Scott can no longer work, and the doctor visits alone impact Shelli's work opportunities.

Here's how you can help.

Scott shared this video on his Facebook Page, explaining the oxygen. He's always looking out for everyone else. Let's help him this time. As Scott (Supa D) would say? Tell the people you love how much you love them. Often.

I was fortunate enough to see Scott and Mike McMath and Scott and Michael Robertson (AKA Scott and Mike Squared) perform at a fantastic gathering hosted by Georgie and Scott Leach. This was the last song of the evening. Please, don't skip this video. You're welcome.

Love ya, Supa D!