Mike is one of the coolest guys I’ve ever known. And this is the hardest thing to see him go through. What we understand now is that he has broken his neck and has a base skull fracture. He has no feeling below his nipples but has movement of his arms and hands. He is still pretty beat up from the accident so it is tough to tell what pain is from being thrown around in the truck and what is from the back/neck injury. He’s a trooper though. He is making jokes and even leading the conversation at times.
For those of you who do not yet heard about the accident this is what we know. They were traveling on the major highway between home a work when the driver of the truck, Cody, fell asleep and drifted across the center line narrowly avoiding a head on collision with a semi-trailer coming in the opposite direction. Once completely through the lane the driver woke up and tried to steer the truck away from the ditch. The truck then began to roll. Mike had been sleeping up to this point, reclining in his chair (buckled up). The truck rolled multiple times and came to a rest on its hood. Mike was trapped in the truck for a couple of hours. He told me today that that time upside down in the truck was the hardest experience he has ever had. He was trapped and was having major difficulty breathing. The jaws of life arrived, he was rescued and they then flew him to the University of Alberta Hospital in Edmonton.
He is currently sleeping next to me with a tracker going from just above the ear, over the head, to just above the other ear. It is attacked to his skull and has a twenty pound weight pulling his neck straight. He will probably have to stay like this for the next several days as the swelling goes down and as they wait for the scheduled surgery.
The biggest prayer requests right now are the following:
1. His lungs stay as stable as they are and that he doesn’t have to be on a respirator.
2. That he gains more strength in his hands and arms.
We know that God is still with us. And that he is writing his story as we speak.
47 comments:
Dear Steve:
I was so sorry to hear of your brother's recent accident. My heart is so heavy for you. I pray that the good Lord will surround your brother, his friends and your family with abundant love, peace, strength, courage and grace.
You will surely forget your trouble, recalling it only as waters gone by. Life will be brighter than noonday, and darkness will become like morning. You will be secure, because there is hope: You will look about you and take your rest in safety.
Job 11:16-18
In Him,
Lorraine Nagy
Yo Mike, praying for you buddy! From what I hear, you're a strong man and you will pull through. Stay strong in Christ!
- Dave
Steve and family,
You are in my thoughts and prayers. I am praying that God will give you strength and that more than anything you will feel his arms around you, holding you as you cry and wait. I know the days ahead are uncertain right now and even though it seems so cliche, I know that the Savior of the universe is standing right beside you and is with you through it all.
Your Michigan family loves you!
Carrie Strasz
Hi Steve,
You, your brother, Lori, and your whole family are in our thoughts and prayers right now. We are so sorry for this struggle you are all facing. If you or Lori need anything, please don't hesitate to call us and ask us (313)886-2212! We love you guys a lot.
In Christ,
Holly SantaLucia for all of the SantaLucia household (John, Julia, and Dan)
Mike,
I love you so much and together we are going to overcome. There is nothing that our God cannot do and he is holding you in his hands. There is nowhere you can go that he is not there with you. He recorded everyday of your life in his book before you were even born. You are his child and he loves you.
I pray that his kingdom will come down and surround you. That you will feel his hands upon you. He is there, cry out to him and he will hear your prayers.
I love you and am always here for you.
Love always and forever,
your sister Lori
Mike ~
You and your family are surrounded by prayer and love. I know God has you close in His arms and will be with you throughout this journey. Keep Him close beside you.
love,
dor
Hey Barkers,
Keep strong, there is nothing in this world that can hold Mike back, I've seen him rebound from far to many things to let this control the rest of his life.
Hang in buddy, I have faith in you and in what's planned for you
Daniel Booth
I’ve been replaying Mike stories in my head for the past few hours, trying to think of something to add to this site and there are too many things to say…Mike has the most amazing spirit of any person in the entire world and that will never change, using the words of his mother “if anyone can make this cool, it’s Mike”.
Mike,
I'm glad to hear u are in good spirits and doing pretty well! Just keep that up, and dont let all this bring you down... but I know you wont let it! You are an amazing guy and God has huge plans for your life. Hang in there... we all know you will pull through. You're in mine and my family's prayers! Good luck with everything.
-Ashlee
I just received the notice of this site - seems to be spreading like wildfire....guess you are loved Mike!! Add me to those numbers. xo Nancy
Mike,
So sorry to hear. There are many poeple praying for you and your family including me. So stay strong, if anyone has the energy and strength to get through this its you!
Jessica Gaberel
Hey Mike and family,
I was shocked to hear the news. I can't imagine what you and your family are going through at the moment. But I do know that you are strong and full of life. If anyone can make it through this tough time, it is you. Keep strong!! You and your family are in my thoughts.
-Mandi Bateman
I've only recently started to do things with michael and i only have fond memories of good times and joking around.
hang in there kid
Jeremy Clevette
Mr. and Mrs. Barker and Steve - I am truly sorry to hear the news about Michael. He is a strong young man with positive inner strength, like no other. The high school was shocked to hear that our former king was hurt. We hope he will fully heal with the help of time and faith. This adversity will only make your resolve, and his character much stronger. Our hearts are with you - Hey Michael leave the nurses alone..
T. Moghrabi
Hey Michael
Hope your doing well and improving. We've all been praying for you and thinking about you constantly. As usual. Hope we'll be able to come in and see you but have heard the nurses are keeping you to themselves. Lots of people in the high school wanted to say a big hello and hope to hear of your improvement. Everyone has been saying if anyone can do this its Michael he has the BIGGEST character. Stay strong! God Bless!
Your in our prayers and thoughts. Love you lots michael
Jakki Hau
Mike,
It's amazing how God has joined our families and even though I have only spent time with you and your family a few times, I have been connected with you through Lori and Steve. They keep me updated on all your major life decision such as college and women of course (wink).
My heart hurts for you right now and I am praying for you and will continue to as you are on this journey to recovery. I have faith in the ultimate healer, Our Lord and Savior and know that he is going to take care of you and your family in this time.
I am praying for you.
Love, Juli
Well... to start this off. I used to have the HUGEST crush on you for the longest time. blush. You are the coolest kid, and you have the biggest heart out there. You can do whatever you put your mind to. This is just another bump in the road, another story to tell the children. As hard as this is for you, you seem to be able to make corny jokes (which is amazing!), and make everyone happier. God is your strength, and He is always there watching over you. It kills me to think of what your going through. If you ever ever need anything i hope you know my phone number by heart. haha. Your continually on my mind and in my prayers!! KEEP ON TRUCKIN'!! LOVE YA
To the fam,
Keep up the good family work. You guys are what keeps the pieces together. Im sorry this ever had to happen to Mike and you guys. Your family is the bestest out there. Me and my mom call you guys the "Barker Beauties" and its true. you all are beautiful on the outside, but whats on the inside makes you guys even more better! I love you all and I'm praying LIKE CRAZY!!! If you ever need anything im sure SOMEONE knows my number, but seriously im willing to do anything to help.Love, Rash
Mike -
One of the best guys i've ever worked with. Funny and strong. You're gonna pull through, and i wish the best for you. pull through for us bud, we are all thinking of you.
The next show my band plays we will definetly dedicate a song to you!!
Mike, this is sherraz
hey hottie, when my mom told me what had happend a day later i broke down into tears. i thought omg i hope he is ok and i tried calling every one to see what your status was and i am glad that your bro put up this site thanks so much. Mike i am praying for you every wakeing min. i get and i know that u like to get all this attention lol and all the hot nurses hey, that wait on you hand and foot. lol i will try and come and see ya but i am sick and dont want to get you sick so i will keep on praying for you and your family and i know that you will be okay. Hang in there buddy it just takes time. luv ya
sherraz
hey guys,
i so sad about mike. tell mike i said hi. can u tell me wuts going on with mike by sending me emails at mitche.boi@gmail.com if u have time. if u don't i totaly understand. tell mike i am praying for him.
mitch
hey guys,
this is mitch. tell mike i said hi and i am praying for him. tell him i wish i could be there. i was wondering if u guys (steve,mathew) could send me emails telling me wuts going on with mike if u have time but if u don't i totaly understand.tell mike that lots of pples in vancouver are praying for u that don't even no u, its pritty cool.
mithcell dickau
hey mike
i left LLB 3 years ago and havent really talked to many people in a long time, and all of a sudden i got news of your accident- everyone is calling, asking us to pray for you, and we are. God has got great plans for you and i know that you are one of the most determined and strong people i know, even though i didnt know you personally- your "energy" was contagious in school.
im praying for you, and my family and church in camrose are too.
-christy ward
Hey Michael and Barker family,
We heard what happened, and we are happy you are okay. I dont think we could imagine what you have gone through. There are so many people praying for you and your family. Just stay strong, have faith, and you will get through this.
Waine family
What can I say about Michael...well basically Mike has been one of, if not my best friend for the last five years. Mike is a joy to be around as he is constanly entertaining his peers, family, teachers, and basically anyone who has ever come in contact with him. Whether it be climbing into the ceiling of the school, or shopping for new threads, Mike always has a smile on. Michael is like a magnet (especially for the ladies) as one can't help but be drawn to him. Even though at times we fought like adolescent girls, Mike and I found a way to see eachother practically everyday in our first year away from home. Though he may not be the same physically, Michael will always carry with him the charisma, the humor, and the kindness that has made everyone love him. From all your friends, you are in our thoughts and prayers as we hope for the best.
love you man
-Jeff D.
Hey Mike
Just wanted you to know that i am always thinking of you and hope that you get better soon. It is good to know you still have that smile on your face.....and good looks hehe. Stay strong and always keep smiling. Luv ya
p.s. i will try to come see you soon
Madina Abougoush
Mike,
you spin the world for so many people.
i love you, and best wishes.
~Lukas,
Mike and Family..you have been in our thoughts and prayers these past few days. One of the things we know and love about you Mike is your incredible spirit...just like Max's..! Keep smiling, it will help with healing...
Love, Cindy and Wally
Hi Michael and Barker family
You have all been in our prayers Michael its so good to hear you are going to be eating (although can't understand the excitement about hospital food) We have to keep you smiling. Your love for life will give you strength .
Our thoughts and prayers are with you God bless all of you
Love Ken & Brenda
Ps Michael thank you for being such a good friend to Jeff
Hey Bud, Im happy to hear that your doin better. I cant imagine what you must be going through. You will fight through it Mike, i know you will! My prayers are with you and your family.
Love Cody (girl cody, not bird)
Hey Mike,
Its good to know that your in good spirits and still have that smile on your face. Remember that everyone is thinking about you and praying for you. Get better soon, we all miss ya! Luv Ya Lots
Nadine Abougoush (the other half... lol)
hey steve,
i am so sorry to here about your brother. i just wanted to let you know that i am praying for you, your family, and mike. it must be very hard. but God always gives you the strength when you need it. you have to let God carry him through. just like our family had to when my uncles got into a major car accident. its all in Gods plan. thats what we family had to realize. well i miss you at storm. im praying for your family.
love ya,
shelby
Hi Mike,
You are in the hands of God. There's no better place to be.
Our thoughts... we wonder, pondering...
If only we could see.
Even with the best eye sight.. we only see so far.
Almighty God sees everything, He was with you in the car.
From here on out things may be different... but you will be okay.
God spared your life and you'll get stronger each and every day.
You keep shining, brighter, brighter... as every day goes by.
We lift our hands in Praise to God,YOUR ALIVE,Thank you Jesus... we cry.
Keep your eyes fixed on the Lord who holds you in His hand.
sometimes things are just to big for us to understand.
God has a plan all figured out especially for you.
So take the bull by the horns cuz everyday's BRAND NEW.
You can do it Mike!
With much love and constant prayer for you and your family,
Nancy Johnson, Grace Community Church.
P.S. The family pic are great... and you are a handsome young man.
Mike,
Keep staying positive during these times. My prayers continue to go out to you and to your family. Take care.
Mr. Richard
and from jeff
we don't know eachother much but every time we play poker u always end up beatin me cuz u dont care u just let things flow n i try 2 hard thats wats good about u u let things flow and this incident will flow through quicker than u know it and it will just b a memory u can share with others
jeff
Greetings from Nashville, TN. Thank you so much for having this site available. I love seeing the pictures and reading the daily updates. In addition, I have been forwarding this site to other friends here in the US as well. There is a lot of prayer being offered up. I will continue to stand in faith with you.
- Sherrie (friend of Nancy Fish)
I've never seen 45 comments on a blog before. I hope you are blessed Mike!
hey mike,
i got some good news. the oilers are doing good!!!!!! i wish i had a portable dvd player man.i am still praying for u. and yesterday the whole church prayed for u at the same time. think about it 300 pples!wow! i hope u keep on getting better.
mitch
ps: GO OILERS GO!
Prayers and virtual hugs. Sometimes the only thing that helps is knowing that others are holding you in their thoughts.
Mike, you probably don't know me but Jeff Daniels gave me you wed-site. I have had the privelege of reading the messages and good wishes sent to you and I can't help wanting to contact you. I am so impressed with your family and the strength they have drawn from you. You have touched a lot of people buddy and for that "ya gotta beleive".
I wish you,Neil and Brenda only good things in your life and our thoughts are with you guys. Your'e strong in your beliefs and we are all better for that.
Brydon and Sue Ward
mike,
all the best to you and your recovery. You are in so many prayers, as well as ours. Your family and friends are all here to support you. We love you mike. No accident can dull the light you shine. You have touched so many people you know, and many you havent. We wish you so many good things.
With love and hope,
Crystal, Nick, and Justin
Of Squirrleys Point.
I can not imagine what you and your family are going thru. I know they must be very proud of the great strength you have shown. All of our best wishes & prayers are with you & your family. There is amazing power in love and obviously you are sorrounded by it. God's strength be with you all.
Brenda Robitaille
Dylan, Kayne & Miles Maskalyk
I actualy was just leaving a comment on my friends page..when I noticed this other girls comment with something about her friend mike getting into a bad accident..and I clicked on the link to this page, and I read everything on it. and it honestly touched me. Mike clearly has alot of people who love him and I think that Because you are such a good person, and because you have so many people praying for you that You will come out of this and you'l be okay. I dont believe that God would actualy let someone so good hearted go threw all of this pain..for a bad outcome. sometimes bad things like these happen to open up our eyes, and it makes us appreciate certain things around us that much more. But just keep on a trucken gorgeous, and dont give up hope. You've got so many people that care about you and I think that You'l be just fine. :)
Mike you are one of a kind!! you were always there to put a smile on everyone's face and you always will. You'll pull through this without a problem just because of the person you are. I don't even have to mention to never give up because i know thats not even close to your mind. Just keep on givin'er shit and never look back, because i know you will make the best out of anything and everything that has to come.
It can only get better from here bud, never forget that.
Ben
Hey Mike,
sorry it took so long for us to post something on this site. we just want you to know that we (muna and samar) are thinking of you and praying that things only get better for you and your family. my parents send thier love and so do our other siblings. we want you and your family to know that we are hear for you no matter what. and we are praying constantly for you. Love you buddy
Samar Muna and Abougoush Family
Hi Mike and family:
I'm so glad you have this way of communicating with you. We're so glad you came out of surgery with less pain in the head and will now have some more freedom to soon sit up. We are praying for God to work a miracle for you.
Go ahead and eat the doughnut and fruit. I can't think of anything that I'd rather eat, unless it'd be ice cream. I saw the bulletin board alongside JAWS cheering for you. Everyone loves you. Maybe some of the LLB youth will be able to stop by to see you as they are in Edmonton for YC this weekend. Keep looking up. Love from the Muellers
Mike
You have always been such an amazing guy, you're the one that always made things fun with your great personality. Its so terrible to hear what happened to you and I pray that you have the best recovery possible.
- Jon
Mike, your recovery is truly amazing. You will see that your body will be made strong because you believe. God loves you and is in control. Your strength comes from your faith, and your faith comes from hearing the Word of God. The strenght and faith of your family, and the family of God is sent to you in prayer.
We pray for your physical recovery.
Rick and Linda McDonald
get well soon
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