Mike's ALS Miracle

I was born in Erie, Pennsylvania in 1980, where I learned how to play in snow, love the smell of grapes (in North East), and say "pop" and "you guys."
When I was 12, we moved to Roanoke (Daleville), Virginia.  I learned how to appreciate country music and windy back roads, and to say "soda" and "y'all."
I am a proud Virginia Tech Hokie; I graduated with my BSEE in 2002 and moved to Columbus, Indiana, to work for Cummins "for a few years."  Fifteen years later, I'm still here (and saying "pop" again!)

I met Erin in middle school, we dated throughout high school and college, and we married in 2004.  She is my perfect life partner, and God blessed us with our amazing sons Philip in 2007 and Gabriel in 2009.  They are the best sons I could have ever asked for.
I am just your average family man.  I work hard to provide for my family. I am a hockey/soccer dad, a Cub Scout den leader, and an active parishioner at East Columbus United Methodist Church.  I love music, model rockets, board games, Hokies, Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins.  My patronus is an otter.

I first noticed problems with my voice in December of 2016.  Over time, my voice deteriorated further and I noticed weakness in my left arm.  After many (increasingly specialized) doctor's visits, I was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), aka Lou Gehrig's disease, in November 2017.

Barring a miracle (which I haven't given up on, and which may come in the form of an experimental treatment), I will gradually lose all muscle function, including arms, legs, swallowing, and breathing.  Then I'll die.  I'm hoping and praying for a slow progression and a high quality of life while I'm here on earth.

Any funds raised by this campaign will be used for my medical expenses; including treatment and travel. And in the unfortunate event that I don’t get my miracle, any money left will be used to support Erin and the boys.

I sincerely thank y'all for your prayers and money.  It is a blessing to know that people care.