Three years ago, a car accident changed my life and left me with ongoing back and neck injuries that still affect my daily life today. My goal is simple: to stay healthy enough to keep working and to be present for my wife and three daughters.

My name is Mike. I’m in my late 40s, a husband, and the father of three daughters (11, 9, and almost 3). I spent 19 years as a teacher before transitioning into Information Technology, where I currently work as a Technology Specialist at a senior living facility.

Before my accident, I was very active — rowing, swimming, biking, hiking, and spending time outdoors with my family. Being active wasn’t just exercise; it was how I connected with my kids and managed stress.

Three years ago, in November, everything changed.

While stopped in traffic on the highway, I was rear-ended at high speed. The impact crushed the back of my car, pushed me into the vehicle in front of me, and sent my car spinning off the road into a tree. Thankfully, I survived, but the crash caused lasting injuries.

As a result of the accident, I have nerve damage in my lower back and neck that causes sharp, shooting pain. Doctors also found six bulging discs — three in my lower back and three in my neck — which contribute to the nerve irritation and ongoing pain.

To manage the pain, I undergo radiofrequency ablation (RFA) treatments. These procedures interrupt pain signals from the affected nerves and typically provide relief for about 9–12 months. Because the nerves eventually regenerate, the treatment needs to be repeated periodically to keep the pain manageable and allow me to function in daily life. Without treatment, the pain can make even normal daily activities difficult.

Since the accident, daily life has been challenging. I can walk for about 30 minutes before my lower back begins to hurt, and sometimes I need to lie flat on the floor for 30–40 minutes to relieve pressure so I can get through the evening with my family. Even simple things — like bending down to play with my youngest daughter — require careful thought.

At the time of the accident, my wife was five months pregnant, and I wasn’t able to be as physically present during our newborn’s early months as I had been with our older daughters.

Over the past three years, I’ve undergone:

• 4–5 months of physical therapy (twice a week until insurance denied further sessions)

• Cortisone injections

• Three RFA procedures — two in my lower back and one in my neck

In the months after the accident, I also worked with a psychologist because I was anxious about getting back in the car. I tried acupuncture as well in hopes of relieving the pain. It took nearly a year of visiting multiple doctors before I was referred to a pain management specialist, who recommended RFA as the most effective treatment for the nerve pain in my back and neck.

Even with insurance, my out-of-pocket costs for the three procedures totaled approximately $15,000 — about $5,000 per treatment.

Recently, my legal case was resolved, but after attorney fees (30%) and $15,000 in medical bills, the remaining settlement will only cover a limited number of future treatments. While insurance covers part of my care, I am still responsible for deductibles, co-insurance, and physical therapy sessions that are no longer covered.

My goal is to remain functional, continue working, and be as active and present as possible for my wife and daughters. I’m also pursuing further education in Information Technology and Computer Science so I can continue learning and growing professionally while managing my injuries.

Low-impact walking is currently the only exercise I can tolerate consistently. Because my activity level has dropped significantly since the accident, I’ve gained weight and am working on rebuilding strength. A home treadmill would allow me to safely maintain movement year-round and better manage my pain and mobility.

I’m a private person and don’t usually ask for help, but I’m reaching out now so I can continue treatment, maintain my ability to work, and be present for my family.

Funds raised will go toward ongoing medical treatments such as future RFA procedures, physical therapy, and equipment that helps me safely stay active and manage pain.

Any support is deeply appreciated. Donations will help cover ongoing medical treatments, therapy, and other expenses related to the injuries from the accident. Even sharing this fundraiser with others would mean a lot and helps spread the word.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for any support you are able to give. It truly makes a difference for my family and me.

— Mike