Heal Mike's Broken Heart
Donation protected
Those who know Mike Cottrell know him as a proud single father, dedicated colleague, conscientious student, thoughtful friend, selfless volunteer, committed supporter of Griffith football and all around great guy with a heart of gold. Unfortunately, that golden heart is failing.
Mike was diagnosed with heart failure in June 2020. He was implanted with a defibrillator in September of 2020 and since then his condition has continued to deteriorate. Mike was advised earlier this year that he needs a heart transplant, in fact, doctors have given him only a 30% chance of surviving until Christmas.
Because he is just 41years old, Mike thought he would have many years to spend with his two grown sons and his youngest boy who is only 12 years old. Instead he is spending his days in doctor’s offices and hospital beds.
Mike recently underwent evaluation for a transplant at University of Chicago Hospitals, but unfortunately was not placed on the transplant list for this facility. They said he would be allowed to re-apply in a year, or they suggested that he seek evaluation at other transplant facilities.
Since odds are against Mike being around a year from now to re-apply, he is tasked with finding a transplant facility that will evaluate him in hopes of placing him on their list. Most people likely do not realize how rigorous the transplant evaluation process is. Each hospital must follow standardized federal guidelines but they also have their own additional requirements. The entire process begins with extensive testing at the facility.
Mike is applying for consideration by multiple transplant centers. This will require traveling to each of these facilities to complete their evaluation process. Of course, travel expenses (flights, hotels, car rentals, etc.) will make this process all the more daunting, especially considering that Mike will still need to cover his family expenses at home. Though he is still working, travel to other facilities will require time away from work and thus loss of income. Once Mike is accepted on to a transplant center’s list, additional travel may be required to complete testing and evaluation. If he is approved for an out-of-state center’s list he may have to temporarily relocate to the area until his transplant and recovery are complete.
Any donation is greatly appreciated. If you are not able to make a financial contribution, please consider registering as an organ donor and please make your family aware of your decision. While 90% of adults support organ donation, only 60% are actually registered donors. One organ donor can save as many as eight lives! Organ donation is truly the ultimate gift and one never knows when they may be on the receiving end.
Mike was diagnosed with heart failure in June 2020. He was implanted with a defibrillator in September of 2020 and since then his condition has continued to deteriorate. Mike was advised earlier this year that he needs a heart transplant, in fact, doctors have given him only a 30% chance of surviving until Christmas.
Because he is just 41years old, Mike thought he would have many years to spend with his two grown sons and his youngest boy who is only 12 years old. Instead he is spending his days in doctor’s offices and hospital beds.
Mike recently underwent evaluation for a transplant at University of Chicago Hospitals, but unfortunately was not placed on the transplant list for this facility. They said he would be allowed to re-apply in a year, or they suggested that he seek evaluation at other transplant facilities.
Since odds are against Mike being around a year from now to re-apply, he is tasked with finding a transplant facility that will evaluate him in hopes of placing him on their list. Most people likely do not realize how rigorous the transplant evaluation process is. Each hospital must follow standardized federal guidelines but they also have their own additional requirements. The entire process begins with extensive testing at the facility.
Mike is applying for consideration by multiple transplant centers. This will require traveling to each of these facilities to complete their evaluation process. Of course, travel expenses (flights, hotels, car rentals, etc.) will make this process all the more daunting, especially considering that Mike will still need to cover his family expenses at home. Though he is still working, travel to other facilities will require time away from work and thus loss of income. Once Mike is accepted on to a transplant center’s list, additional travel may be required to complete testing and evaluation. If he is approved for an out-of-state center’s list he may have to temporarily relocate to the area until his transplant and recovery are complete.
Any donation is greatly appreciated. If you are not able to make a financial contribution, please consider registering as an organ donor and please make your family aware of your decision. While 90% of adults support organ donation, only 60% are actually registered donors. One organ donor can save as many as eight lives! Organ donation is truly the ultimate gift and one never knows when they may be on the receiving end.
Organizer and beneficiary
Rey Vargas
Organizer
Griffith, IN
William Cottrell
Beneficiary