Help Michael Whittington

A Devoted Father Fighting Through Pain and Injustice

I’m writing this on behalf of someone who would never ask for help himself — Michael Whittington — a hardworking father, a fighter, and one of the most selfless people I know.

In October 2023, Michael suffered a serious work-related injury. Like many who’ve worked through chronic pain before, he didn’t report it immediately — assuming it was a flare-up from two prior back surgeries. But as the pain worsened and began affecting his ability to function, he reached out to his employer’s HR department to begin filing for short-term disability. Before he could even submit the paperwork, he was terminated.

Michael lost his job, his insurance, and his income — all while the pain continued to grow. On the advice of an attorney, he filed for Social Security Disability, believing he’d be back to work before long. But that wasn’t the case. In February 2025, he received an initial denial, and is now in the middle of an appeal — a process that could take many months, or even years.

Despite everything, Michael hasn’t stopped fighting. He sold everything of value to keep food on the table and the lights on for his three children, whom he’s raised on his own for over a decade. Multiple MRIs initially failed to explain his worsening condition — until a new doctor finally ordered the right test: a cervical MRI with contrast.

The results were devastating: severe damage in his cervical spine from C2 to C7, causing worsening nerve damage and loss of use in his dominant arm — a condition known as withering hand syndrome. The procedures he now needs most aren’t covered by Medicaid, and without income, they are financially out of reach.

Still, Michael gives everything he has — financially and emotionally — to keep his children safe, stable, and supported. And now, after ten years of raising them alone, their mother — who struggled with addiction and served two years in prison — is trying to walk back into their lives. Michael continues to do everything he can to protect their well-being.

Michael is not looking for a handout. He’s looking for hope.

We’re asking for $15,000 to help cover:

• Essential medical procedures not covered by Medicaid

• Housing and utilities for Michael and his three children

• Legal support if needed to ensure the safety and stability of his family

• Basic daily needs as they wait through the slow disability appeal process

this is only a small portion of what is needed, but it would certainly help him out. He’s went through his savings, 401(k), when there’s nothing replenishing the account seems to go empty.

Michael Whittington is a man who has always done right by his kids — but right now, he’s carrying a weight no one should have to bear alone. If you’ve ever believed in standing up for someone who’s fallen through the cracks, please help us lift him up.

Every donation, every share, every kind word makes a difference.

Let’s help Michael get the care he deserves, the stability he’s earned, and the second chance he’s fighting for — not just for himself, but for the children who still need their father strong.

With deep gratitude,

Friends of Michael Whittington