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Stand by Mike: Recover & Rebuild

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Help Mike Recover & Rebuild After Injury & Loss

I have created this on behalf of my brother Mike Blackshaw, in conjunction with my other siblings. We don't want to be here or do this, but we're here because we have to. Every cent will go straight to him asap-- I'm just doing my part as his sister. Mike is one of the kindest, most adventurous souls you’ll ever meet and although this is his reality, he doesn't want to be here either. However, I am hoping that this is far reaching. I'm sure more people have felt like they are in an impossible situation than not and he really needs a leg up so he can move forward.

His entrepreneurial spirit led him to open a gorgeous bicycle shop, AceMetrics in Winter Park, Florida—a beloved community staple. When the pandemic forced him to close his doors, he embraced the van life, traveling in search of his next chapter. That journey eventually brought him to Central/Northern California, but instead of stability, he’s been met with one challenge after another.

On January 31st—his 44th birthday (same day, same year as Justin Timberlake, fun fact!), he underwent surgery to repair a tendon in his right arm after a snowboarding accident. While he’s no stranger to injuries, this one has completely taken away his ability to work. Without an income, he lost his health insurance—making his road to recovery even harder. A nesting doll of garbage.

Then, on February 14th, things got worse. The truck and Airstream that had served as his home for years broke down beyond repair. Now, Mike is stuck—completely stuck. He needs to stay in California to continue the recovery process, as he has already begun accessing essential services there. If he leaves, he risks losing the progress he’s made toward physical therapy and medical care.

We, as his siblings, are doing everything we can to help, but we need your support to put out one fire at a time until Mike is in a position to rebuild his life. Being 3000+ miles away isn't the most helpful either.

How You Can Help:

Your donation will go toward:

✅ Medical expenses & ongoing physical therapy

✅ Daily living costs while he heals

✅ A safe and stable place to stay during recovery

✅ Transportation to get back on his feet

Mike has always been the one to lift others up. Now, it’s our turn to lift him. Every little bit counts, and if you can’t donate, please share this with others who can.

Thank you for being part of Mike’s journey—let’s help him heal, recover, and come back stronger than ever. We all, especially him, will be eternally grateful for any help, monetary or otherwise and appreciate all positivity. ❤️
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    Organizer and beneficiary

    kristen blackshaw
    Organizer
    West Hartford, CT
    Michael Blackshaw
    Beneficiary

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