Help Mike Fight Cancer and Get Back on His Feet

Dear Friends, Family, and Kind-hearted Strangers,

In December of 2022, our beloved friend, Michael Hooton (a.k.a Hootman), received the devastating news that he had been diagnosed with Stage 3 (Close to Stage 4) rectal cancer. His journey since then has been an arduous one, filled with pain, surgeries, treatments, and countless hurdles. Today, we stand together to support Mike in his fight against this relentless disease and help him regain his life.

Mike's Battle: In January, Mike underwent bypass surgery due to a complete blockage in his rectal area, a life-saving procedure that came with its own set of challenges. Following the surgery, from March to July of 2023, he endured grueling rounds of radiation and chemotherapy, enduring the physical and emotional toll these treatments can bring.

This ordeal has not only taken a severe toll on Mike's health but also his ability to work and provide for himself. He was unable to work for most of 2023 and only returned to his job in August, but with significant restrictions due to his condition. To add to the financial burden, during his absence from work, Mike was not able to pay for health insurance, which has led to his paychecks now being prorated for insurance costs while he was out.

The Next Chapter: Mike's fight is far from over. In search of the best possible care, he will soon be traveling to the renowned Mayo Clinic for further treatment. Unfortunately, the local hospital system's confidence in the results of their treatment process has left Mike with no other option but to seek additional expertise. It is likely that he will be scheduled for a significant surgery at the Mayo Clinic, one that will render him unable to work for a minimum of eight weeks, possibly longer.

Our Call to Action: Between the mounting medical bills he has already acquired, the lost work time, the prorated paychecks, and the impending additional treatments at the Mayo Clinic, Mike is facing an overwhelming financial burden. The weight of his regular obligations, not to mention the expenses associated with travel to the Mayo Clinic and the inevitable additional medical bills, is causing immense stress during an already challenging time.

How You Can Help: Mike's battle against cancer is one he should not have to face alone. We are reaching out to you, our community, to provide support, love, and financial assistance. Your generous donations will go towards:

1. Medical Bills: Covering the expenses related to past treatments and those yet to come, ensuring that Mike receives the best care available.

2. Living Expenses: Assisting Mike in meeting his regular obligations, including mortgage, utilities, and groceries, during his ongoing recovery period.

3. Travel Expenses: Supporting Mike's travel to the Mayo Clinic and any associated costs.

4. Rehabilitation: Aiding in his recovery process and helping him regain his strength and independence.

5. Emotional Support: Your donations will not only alleviate financial stress but also provide much-needed emotional support to Mike during this challenging time.

Let's join hands and make a difference in Mike's life. Any contribution, no matter how small, will be a significant step towards helping him beat cancer and get back on his feet.

We appreciate your kindness, generosity, and the love you have for Mike. Together, we can bring hope, healing, and relief to his journey. Please share this fundraiser with your network and let's rally around Mike in his time of need.

Thank you for being a part of this fight.

With love and gratitude, Team Hootman.