Michael Austin's medical journey

For years we have heard the phrase “If you know Michael, you love Michael”.  As a family we, Mark and Lisa Austin, know that we love him dearly and we are reaching out for help and prayer for Michael’s finances which have taken a serious hit due to his serious medical condition.  We hope to earn enough to cover Michael’s immediate out of pocket medical for 2021 and hopefully enough to relieve the strain on his finances so he can focus on getting well. 
 
On May 6 of 2020, Michael began feeling ill and was taken to the emergency room.  Since that date, Michael has only been out of the hospital for a few weeks total.  He has had quite an awful journey and he still has a long way to go.  His initial diagnosis was Acute Pancreatitis and that was just to start.  Initial diagnosis turned into Necrotizing Pancreatitis, Hypoxia (absence of enough oxygen in the tissues to sustain bodily functions), Pancreatic Pseudocyst, bilateral Pleural Effusion (fluid on the lungs) and high blood pressure. That extensive list brings you through June 2, 2020.  You have now heard basic details of Michael’s first 28 days out of this 279-day (and counting) journey.  Continuing with the list of ailments from June 3 to present will result in a story too long to read so we have placed a picture of Michael’s diagnosis chart so you can read if you choose to.  Fast-forward to August 15 - this is the day we almost lost Michael.  He was diagnosed with a duodenal ulcer and GI bleeding.  He nearly bled to death! He lost consciousness and his memory for several days. Currently Michael is suffering from an infection in his spinal fluid, ongoing pancreatic issues, and diabetes.  He is set to be discharged to a Skilled Nursing Center later this week for 2 – 4 weeks and we pray he gains strength and keeps his positive attitude and gets to go home soon. 
 
The pancreas is a very important little organ that plays an essential role in converting the foods we eat into fuel for our cells.  It functions in both digestion and regulating blood sugar. Michael’s pancreas is beginning to function more normally, and it appears that the spinal infection is clearing up.  Michael has lost an extreme amount of weight and has a battle ahead of him to regain his strength to function normally. We are so proud of him for his positive outlook and the way he is battling for recovery!
 
Michael is extremely Blessed with a wonderful employer who has worked to keep him employed throughout this journey and he has thankfully maintained his health insurance.  He is working remotely at a decreased number of hours and he simply does not have the income he needs to be able to support himself and his medical needs. 
 
If you KNOW Michael, then we are betting you LOVE Michael and he really needs his friends and family right now! If you can spare a bit for this wonderful man, we greatly appreciate it! If you cannot, we understand, and we ask that you pray your heart out for some relief for him!
 
Thank you from the whole Austin clan!  We cannot express our gratitude enough!