And you can help…
That guy…the smart, funny, tough, talented one who works hard and plays harder. He tirelessly serves his country, his many friends, strangers in need, and most of all his family. He lives every day with amazing love, passion, and dedication to those around him. That guy is Mike Bates.
On November 25, 2011, Mike was dealt his greatest challenge of all…while motorcycling with his son Nick, Mike suffered a terrible accident which caused a debilitating spinal cord injury. This level of injury is often fatal and multiple times in the hours and days following, the medical professionals didn’t know if Mike would survive, much less do so without severe brain damage…but they also didn’t know Mike.
He survived with all his mental capabilities intact. Due to the efforts of some great docs and nurses, the support of his friends and family, but mostly due to his own toughness and persistence, Mike has made amazing progress in his physical recovery. He has re-learned to breathe, use a computer, and even walk short distances with assistance. As always, Mike has faced this challenge with determination, bravery, and his ever present smile.
The next step in Mike’s recovery is a stem-cell treatment in Panama in August. Due to the slow progress of stem cell research and limited available trials, Mike needs to travel out of the country and self-fund this experimental treatment. To cover the cost, which may help Mike in critical quality of life areas, he is launching a Crowdfunding campaign…..and like everything Mike does, its guaranteed to be fun and unique.
For Mike’s whole life he’s been the one helping others, and he honestly struggles being the one asking for help, but he needs your assistance. If you’re able to donate, or help share Mike’s story, or even just want to offer up some additional prayers while staying up to date on Mike’s progress with the Panama trip and the results of this experimental treatment, please go to:
https://m.helphopelive.org/campaign/230
Thank you for your past and continued support and prayers, Steve Bates, D36 Redding Dirt Riders 109R
All proceeds to benefit the Help Hope Live 501(c)3 Southwest Spinal Cord Injury fund for Mike Bates
