Michael almost drowned in the pond and lost his health! Please help!

Currently, Michael is 17 years old. When he was 2 years old, a terrible accident happened—he fell into a pond and choked on water. His breath and heart stopped. The doctors brought him back to life, however, due to oxygen deficiency, some irreversible changes in his brain occurred. 

As a result, Michael developed tetraplegia, and spasticity, which causes joint dislocation, as well as epilepsy. Currently, Mikey breathes through a tracheostomy tube. An airway suction pump must be used to remove discharge from his lungs. He’s fed via a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube—the food he receives is already blended. 

Michael’s basic form of treatment, apart from medications, consists of physical therapy. It supports his muscular system, promotes relaxation, and relieves pain caused by spasticity. Physical therapy also supports his digestive, respiratory and cardiovascular systems. He would hardly exist if it wasn’t for the therapy. Michael also requires specialized equipment and an airway suction pump, a wheelchair that allows him to take a stroll outside, and drive to doctor’s appointments, a car seat, a positioning chair, and rehabilitation aids (bolsters, balls, and mat). 

Mikey is a cheerful, happy teenager, who loves to observe the world around him. He has two brothers who take care of him, spend time with him, take him for a stroll, and read books to him. My mom is also very helpful, and she is a devoted grandma who often accompanies us to rehabilitation camps. 

We know that Michael understands a lot, despite his inability to speak. We communicate with each other through a special device called C-eye (cyber eye). He uses his eyeballs to point at messages he wants to express, that are displayed on a monitor. 

Mike is communicative, and he likes to have the whole family around. He owns some pets (cats and dogs), and also loves horses. He is homeschooled and rehabilitated every day. 

However, the therapy is too short, so we travel to rehabilitation camps where Mikey can undergo intensive exercises and treatments. 

Physical therapy is extremely important for Michael due to his serious health issues. 

It prevents abnormal muscle contracture and spine curvature. It relaxes muscles and supports breathing and digestion. 

The cost of devices, medications, medical supplies, and physical therapy itself is enormous.

Please, help us! We cannot afford to provide Michael with the required treatment. We try to offer him as much as we can, but most of all, we give him love and a safe home. 

We ask you to support our fundraiser for another rehabilitation camp and a bath massage mat! 

Ewelina and Maciej Łaptuta