Support Mike (Bag's) Fight Against Stage 4 Cancer

Hi, my name is Renee Johnson Wolff, and I’m fundraising on behalf of my dear friend Mike “BAG” Kragness, who had a stroke in 2017, but recovered 80%, with some memory loss and no feeling in both feet (neuropathy). After a couple of years, Covid happened and Mike ended up with infections in both feet, which then led to 7 surgeries (along with over 200 doctor appointments and therapy sessions), and the amputation of all toes on his left foot, and 3 toes on his right foot. It was a long recovery and it took its toll on Mike. He spent over 2 months in the hospital during this time. Mike finally got the green light to resume every day life, part-time work and some activities in October of 2024.

In December of 2024, Mike had bad stomach cramps, went in for testing and colonscopy, and was told that he had colon cancer. In January 2025, Mike had surgery to remove 10 inches of his colon (to remove the tumor and 3 lymph nodes). The lymph node test came back positive with possible future growth in colon area. Mike started a 12 cycle treatment of chemotherapy over 6 months.

After Mike finished his 3rd cycle of chemotherapy (with 9 more to go), Mike was diagnosed with an infection in his colon called CDIFF. It was the worst infection ever, massive diarrhea, 10 days of antibiotics, with 15 appointments to get IV liquids, and all chemo appointments were halted, and finally CDIFF was cleared, but Mike still had the symptoms of CDIFF. A C-scan was done on his colon, it came back clear, but they saw spots on his liver. After MRI on the spots, cancer tumors were shown. A biopsy was performed and it came back positive for malignant cancer tumors. His new diagnosis is Stage 4 Colon/Liver Malignant Cancer. Mike has now been referred to the University of Minnesota Hospital for future evaluation and treatment.

This news has been devastating for Mike and all of us who love him. Despite the emotional toll, he is facing this challenge with courage and determination. He has already witnessed the love and true friendship from childhood friends and other friends that he has made over the years. After the barbecue that his friends threw for him, even in Bag form, he showed little emotion about the fuss, but I knew, deep down, he was one happy dude. However, the road ahead is long and filled with medical treatments, surgeries, and ongoing care that comes with overwhelming financial strain.

As you all know, before these diagnoses, Mike was an energetic, caring man, always ready to lend a hand to others. Now it’s our turn to help him.

We are raising funds to help cover:

• Cancer treatments

• Doctor appointments, along with Hospital stays and special care needed

• Medications not covered by insurance

• Travel expenses to and from doctor appointments and treatments

• Household expenses during recovery

Mike has been unable to work since the start of Covid when his feet problems occurred. Even though Mike is grateful to have disability insurance, his monthly expenses far exceed the amount of his disability check. He owes over $500 per month beyond his disability pay. This does not include, which I have seen myself, the overdue/delinquent medical bills that are piling up. All of his savings and financial resources have also been depleted.

Mike is my best friend and I have gone over his financial situation with him, and he desperately needs help. I am hoping that his huge volume of friends and family are able to donate to help him on his road to recovery.

Every donation – no matter the amount – makes a difference. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser with your network. Your love, support, and prayers mean the world to Mike/BAG and his family.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

With gratitude,

Renee Johnson Wolff and all of Bag's friends and family :)