Update: Sunday December 11th 2022, 11:49am

Mike is still in a coma. He is moving a little more than before, but only in response to pain.

The critical period of brain swelling may be over, so they removed his brain wire. That removal combined with the reduction of his intra cranial pressure means they can finally do do the MRI of the brain and neck. This will assess the bones and ligaments in his neck for whether or not his neck needs surgery and give us a better picture of the brain injury.

As a next step towards rehab, I authorized the removal of the breathing tube out of his mouth and into to his neck in the form of a tracheostomy. They don’t see him at a point to where he doesn’t need a breathing tube for several weeks based on the damage to the part of the brain that regulates breathing, so this will provide him more comfort and effectiveness until he can breathe on his own again one day.

When he does leave the SICU, he will go to a less intensive ICU, and then they expect that he will be in a long term acute care hospital for a “very long time” based on the extent of his brain injuries. The neurologist can only tell us “several months to several years” at this point.

What can you do?

In difficult times like these, we always want to know what can be done. Here are some ways you can help:

1) Leave a note for him on his Christmas tree. Leave a comment on this post or at the bottom of the main page, and we'll make sure it gets on one of his ornaments. Keep it short and sweet so it will fit!

2) Donate to his GoFundMe page. These funds will be used to make sure his bills are paid while he is in rehab and unable to work, as well as to make sure he has items that help him feel physically and emotionally comfortable. The use of these funds is being cross-checked for accountability by members of his family as well as his closest friends.

3) Send your love and manifestations through prayer or other positive energy. We suggest lighting a white candle for healing, and sending your positive energy to Mike each time you pass by it.

At this time, we are limiting the number of visitors to a handful of close friends and family until we have a better idea of how well he can tolerate the extra stimulation. We look forward to welcoming additional visitors when advised by his medical team.