Mike had never heard of Ramsay-Hunt syndrome until his diagnosis after visiting several hospitals for excruciating pain. On the fourth hospital visit, he was finally diagnosed and the prognosis was bleak. He couldn’t walk properly and his hearing and vision were limited. Doctors were unsure if these symptoms would improve. Mike started physiotherapy immediately but progress was slow and this led to a depression and, eventually, a full mental breakdown.

After attempting to take his own life, Mike’s family intervened and he entered mental health treatment. This was a turning point, leading Mike to find a new will to live and renewed determination to get back on a paddle board. After the frustration of a slow physical recovery, he finally started to see progress. The moment Mike stood on a paddle board again, he knew he had to use his experience to help others. With his lived experience needing and seeking mental health support, he focused his efforts on raising awareness about the mental health crisis in Canada.

Mike started by hosting local fundraising events and, in 2021, he set out to become the first person with disabilities to cross all five Great Lakes on a paddle board. Thwarted by dangerous weather conditions in his initial attempt, Mike recommitted himself to another year of intense physical and mental training before trying again.

During this time, Mike also built a team of 38 people that included coaches, nutritionists, boat captains, support crews, logistics coordinators, website developers, content writers, and weather and navigation specialists. In 2022, Mike and his dedicated support team made history when Mike became the first person with disabilities to conquer crossing all five Great Lakes.

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