Michael Thomison Medical

In October 2010, Michael had a mass on his abdomen biopsied. The results he received at that time was that the mass was benign and could be removed if it became bothersome.  The mass sat quietly until about 6 months ago when there was notice of significant growth. Unalarmed, he decided to have it removed.  What was expected to be a small incision resulted in a 12 inch cut, spanning from his pubic bone to his hip bone, because the mass was much larger than anticipated.  A week later he received a call that the mass was cancerous.  He was diagnosed with Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans (DFSP) which is a rare type of cancer that develops in the deep layers of skin. It is sometimes described as having tentacles that can grow into surrounding fat, muscle and even bone.

Michael is the town Marshal in Bunker Hill, IN and is a member of the 202 ILEA class.  He has been with Bunker Hill since 2012 starting as a Reserve Officer and was hired as the Marshal in 2013. Michael is a dedicated and hardworking asset to the town and its citizens.  He is a very proud and committed Police Officer and it shows in his reputation among the community. He also has a floor covering business. He has been in the industry all his adult life.  He is very skilled and crafted in his abilities.  His son works for him and helps manages the business.

Michael is married and has 3 adult aged children who live at home while attending college.  There are a total of 4 in the household who are college students. He is the primary financial supporter and is very concerned to uphold his commitment to supporting them while they earn their degrees. He is active with his family and enjoys spending time in nature kayaking, hiking, and gardening.  

The initial surgery was budgeted and prepared for in terms of out of pocket cost and time off work.  However, since the diagnosis, he will being having additional surgeries and more time off work that isn’t accounted for.  He has met with his oncologist and surgery team at IU Health Simon Cancer Center and a treatment plan has been established. Radiation and chemotherapy are ineffective forms of treatment for this type of cancer. Surgery is the most successful method to rid this. However, worth noting, is that DFSP has a high incidence of local recurrence.  This means he will need to be closely monitored by his medical team to catch any signs of potential recurrence.

Any help, financial, prayers, or otherwise, is greatly appreciated.