In the spring of 2024, Alex suffered a rare, near fatal medical event at home secondary to his genetic autoimmune disorder. He would become so sick, he had to shut down his business. This left Michelle working double duty to make ends meet, until she couldn’t. At the end of 2024, she started experiencing her own medical mystery. After declining over a few weeks, that turned into months, she kept getting sicker with more systems being involved. Nothing was adding up.

Although their water had been tested the past, multiple new tests were obtained to rule out potential environmental toxins.

The results were astounding: they’ve received confirmation that their home’s well water has tested at significantly toxic levels, and exponentially above the EPA’s action level of 15 ppb. How does this happen? Their home isn’t old enough for lead paint or pipes. They found out during their research that water is not routinely tested for lead unless there is a reason or the homeowner asks for it. Lead does not exist naturally in their local environment. Today, there are more questions than answers but they are finally heading in the right direction.

For comparison, a search of the DNR’s Drinking Water System Portal show that their lead numbers are some of the highest reported in Vilas county over the last 45 years.

Their three small children have been drinking this water during their most vulnerable developmental years. Extensive research shows that there is no safe level of lead exposure for children without known adverse effects. Lead is one of the few things that can cross the blood brain barrier and causes irreversible damage.

What Happens Next

They are working with the local health department, attorneys, healthcare providers, and the Wisconsin DNR. They are following every recommended protocol. There is a lot they don’t yet know. Over the coming days, we hope to gain clarity on:

1. Securing safe water access to the property

2. Identifying the source of contamination

3. Assessing and identifying the family’s current and future needs, particularly the three young children

What They’re Facing

While full cost estimates are still in progress, they are preparing for substantial and ongoing financial needs, including:

• Alternative water access

• Environmental testing and possible remediation

• Medical evaluations and support for the children

• Ongoing diagnostics and treatment

• The impact of lost income for the unforeseeable future

Michelle has worked as a paramedic for 16 years, and at this point, it’s unclear whether she’ll ever be able to return to that role — a reality that’s incredibly difficult, both emotionally and financially. While it’s a blessing to be able to begin piecing together some answers, it’s a bittersweet one. This has been an incredibly challenging season, and the battle has only just begun.

They may not know exactly what this road will look like, but it won’t be a short one (and there are no “easy” buttons — we checked).

The family is deeply humbled and appreciative of all the friends, neighbors and strangers who continue to walk beside them and help tackle this head on. You are the Village! You are Team Tameling