On August 13, 2024 my great-nephew Michael Viera was admitted to A.I. duPont Children’s Hospital in Wilmington, Delaware. A day later he was diagnosed with Guillain Barre Syndrome. A horrible disease that causes your immune system to attack your muscles. In Michael’s case, his legs became paralyzed. He could only move his arms from the elbow down, his mouth opens, but only 1/4-1/2 inch. His mother ( my niece Danielle) along with the rest of the family were devastated.
Prior to this disease presenting itself, Michael complained of congestion, headaches, and at one point had a fever of 104°. His mother took him to the ER at Bayhealth Kent General in Dover. The Dr.’s called A.I. duPont for an over the phone consultation. Michael was sent home. Knowing that something was horribly wrong, Danielle drove him to A.I. duPont the next day. One week later, and Michael is still there. He has been administered 3 rounds of immunoglobulin, which has halted the disease’s progression. He has been moved from Intensive Care, to Acute Care, and now is in the Rehab Center at A.I. duPont. Michael cannot walk. The Physical Therapy started on Friday, August 23rd. He is now able to sit upright on the side of his bed (after being lifted). His voice is getting louder, but he is still limited on how far he can open his mouth. Michael has a feeding tube through his nose and into his stomach, and he can now eat puréed food.
Why am I telling you this? Michael is only 14!!! His twin brothers Maddox and Mason are 12. Their father passed away a few years ago due to a heart condition. Danielle is an employee of the State of Delaware. Sure, she has insurance, but is out of vacation and sick time. She cannot apply for donated leave until she is out for 5 weeks per State Code. Michael will need Intensive Physical Therapy 5 days a week once he is discharged, and A.I. will need for him to have a guardian present. Our family is reaching out to you for help. This unfortunate health emergency will be taxing financially. Please continue with your prayers, texts, cards, and well wishes. If you can donate, please consider doing so.
Thank you, Lisa Rochford