❤️ Help Support Sarah’s Kidney Donation Journey

Hi, my name is Richard Michel. I’m a Colorado native living in Boulder, and I’m organizing this fundraiser for my sister, Sarah Joy Michel, who is about to do something incredibly selfless: she’s donating her kidney to our uncle, Bill.

Sarah is also a Colorado native. We grew up together on a farm in Brighton, Colorado, where we learned the value of hard work and family. Today, our dad continues that legacy — working on a dairy farm in Fort Morgan.

Sarah is a loving mother to six children, ranging in age from 2 to 24: Shae, Odalin, Nathanyel, Khyla, Kayleigh, and Alorah.

She has O-negative blood, making her an ideal match for our uncle. Her surgery is scheduled for June 9th at Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora.

Why We’re Asking for Help

Sarah’s gift will give Bill a second chance at life — but it comes with a heavy personal cost.

She’ll be recovering for up to six weeks, unable to do her physically demanding work at The Flame Steakhouse in Fort Morgan. Although she qualifies for FMLA, it only covers a portion of her hourly wage and none of her tips, which make up a large part of her income.

As a single mom supporting a household, this time off will create a serious financial strain. That’s where we’re asking for your support.

✨ To be clear, this fundraiser is not to pay Sarah for her donation. That would be illegal. All donations will go toward specific, documented living expenses during her recovery, including rent, utilities, insurance, and transportation — expenses she would otherwise cover by working.

When She Needs Help

Sarah needs support between June 9th and July 20th. Our goal is to raise $4,572 to help her cover her essential monthly costs while she recovers. I’ve personally committed to donating the first $100.

Monthly Expenses

Expense Amount

Rent $2,250

Gas $175

Electricity $125

Phone $110

Internet $83

Storage $80

Insurance $225

Total $3,048/month

6 Weeks $4,572

Sarah’s Strength and Sacrifice

Donating a kidney is a lifelong medical decision. Statistically, Sarah may experience higher blood pressure and long-term health considerations. But despite that, she’s stepping up for family without hesitation.

Sarah is the kind of person who gives from the heart — whether to her kids, her customers, or her community. Now she needs help from that same community to make sure she can recover safely and without added stress.

How You Can Help

-Pray for Sarah and Uncle Bill. Your prayers for a smooth surgery, steady recovery, and strength for both of them — and for their families — mean more than words can say.

-Donate if you can. Every dollar helps cover real bills while Sarah heals.

-Share this fundraiser. Whether on social media, by text, or with friends — spreading the word helps us reach more hearts.

-Send Sarah your love and encouragement. Notes of support lift her spirit and remind her she’s not alone.

We are so grateful for your help — thank you for standing by Sarah during this time of healing and hope.

With gratitude,

Richard Michel

(You can find me on Facebook and LinkedIn)