Michael BAKER

I never imagined my life would change so suddenly. It all started when I tried to help someone, but instead, I was thrown down a flight of stairs and ended up in the emergency room. There, doctors discovered I had a T-12 compression spine fracture and admitted me to the hospital for eight days. They wanted me to get in touch with my primary care physician, so I had to take several MRI screenings. Eventually, I was transferred to a post-acute facility, where after a couple of weeks, they told me I had a spinal infection and needed to take antibiotics for another four weeks. While I was stuck in the facility, I lost the money I had put down on an apartment, including the first month and security deposit. After finishing the antibiotics, I was discharged and left out to dry, struggling to find a way forward. Now, I am trying to raise money just to eat and hopefully rent a room. I am still in a lot of pain and have to take many prescriptions. As I ponder the future, which includes surgery to stabilize my spine with a permanent wedge or material, I feel anxious and nervous. I have lost 2 1/2 inches in height, a lot of weight, and now use a walker to get around. All funds I can raise will go directly to rent and food, which are essential for my recovery and daily living. Whatever you can afford in these tough times would be incredibly helpful, and I would truly appreciate it for my recovery. Thank you in advance for any generosity. I'm not sure I have stated everything, not only did I crack my spine, I also received my 6th concussion along with several broken ribs and I also needed left shoulder surgery and I ended up having a double hernia surgery, my body took a beating and I was just trying to help a woman with her own situation going on, I paid the price for that