Our family never imagined we would be sharing a story like this, but today we are asking for help as our son, Mikee (Miguel), faces the biggest battle of his young life.

Mikee is an incredibly bright and hardworking young man who has always loved learning. As a just 15 years old freshman he began his first job, which he misses so much and also has been active in football for the past three seasons. Our son has developed skills and knowledge well beyond his age. He enjoys construction projects, understands from plumbing to electrical wiring basics, is confident using power tools, knows how to haul and even back up a trailer, and is always eager to help with just about any project. He has a strong work ethic, a kind heart, and a willingness to help others. Watching him put his talents and energy into the things he loves has always made us incredibly proud.

Towards the end of April, Mikee began experiencing fatigue, headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and changes in his skin color (yellowing). After routine blood work revealed critically abnormal results, he was immediately sent to the emergency room and admitted to the hospital. Further testing showed that his blood counts were dangerously low, requiring both blood and platelet transfusions.

On May 26 following extensive testing, bone marrow biopsies, transfusions, and consultations with specialists, Mikee was diagnosed with Severe Aplastic Anemia, a rare and serious bone marrow failure disorder.

Severe aplastic anemia means Mikee’s bone marrow is no longer producing enough red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets to keep his body functioning properly. Since his diagnosis, Mikee is dependent on transfusions and ongoing medical care he has required frequent blood and platelet transfusions while doctors work to restore his bone marrow function.

We have undergone extensive testing to determine the best path forward. Unfortunately, neither of Mikee’s sisters was a full bone marrow donor match. His medical team has recommended Immunosuppressive Therapy with ATG.

On Friday, June 26, Mikee will undergo surgery to have a mediport placed to help safely deliver the treatments and medications he will need throughout this journey.

On Monday, June 29, Mikee will be admitted and begin ATG immunosuppressive therapy, an intensive treatment designed to help stop his immune system from attacking his bone marrow and give his body the opportunity to begin producing healthy blood cells again.

We are reaching out for support so that we can focus our time, energy, and attention on what matters most right now—Mikee’s treatment, recovery, and well being.

As we navigate this unexpected journey, the financial impact of ongoing medical care and appointments, hospital stays, travel and transportation, medications, missed work, meals away from home, and other unexpected expenses continues to grow. Your generosity will help ease some of that burden and allow us to remain present for our son during the days and months ahead.

No donation is too small and will make a meaningful difference for our family. If you feel led to help, any contribution, no matter the amount will go directly toward Mikee’s medical journey and the expenses that come with his treatment and recovery.

If you are unable to give, we completely understand and would be grateful for your prayers, positive thoughts, and for sharing Mikee’s story with others.

Mikee is a strong, brave young man with a fighting spirit. We are holding onto hope, faith, and the incredible support of our community as we walk this road together.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your love, prayers, and support during this difficult time.

With gratitude,

The Ibarra Family ❤️