Michael’s Story

Site created on May 8, 2021

On May 5, 2021 our son and brother, Michael (Mike)Niederjohn, 36 years old, had a stroke while doing his workout and lifting weights. To say we have been in shock is an understatement. Even more so, the fact that he is just 36 and has survived the type of stroke, a basilar artery occlusion, which has a 94% mortality rate, is nothing less than a miracle. We can’t thank Michael’s roommate, Ben, enough, as well as theBloomington EMTs and police as well as the emergency personnel, surgeons and neurologists at Fairview Southdale Hospital in Edina who saved Michael’s life this past Wednesday. After 3 hours of life saving surgery on Wednesday afternoon, 2 stints were placed in his brain/artery to create blood flow. We have been uplifted by the prayers and support of family and friends throughout this most difficult of weeks. Michael is currently in ICU and is gradually healing. His prognosis is good, given his age, but he has a long recovery ahead of him. What we are praying for right now is to have the swelling in Michael’sbrain decrease so the headaches are alleviated, having his doublevision resolve so he can see clearly, decreasing his sensitivity to light, and improving his ability to walk without feeling off balance, and avoiding the onset of depression which often accompanies this type of stroke. Right now the doctors are just trying to keep him comfortable so he can get some sleep. We will know more as more tests are run. Though this week has been very challenging for us as a family, we have felt the prayers and support of so many and feel so very blessed. We will update you all as we get more information. 
With Gratitude and Love,

Cindy, Clark, and Heather Niederjohn

Newest Update

May 17, 2021

Journal entry by Heather Niederjohn-McCutcheon —

Since our last update, Michael has been home resting, recovering and adjusting to this new, hopefully temporary, normal. He is very tired and fatigued as you can expect. The major disability at the moment is the double vision which is causing some incoordination. We are looking forward to starting physical therapy this week. As a family, we feel it’s time to wrap up the caring bridge updates and just want to thank everyone from the bottom of our hearts for the love, prayers, support and assistance during this time. Michael asked me to please share a message from him as well: 


Dear Friends and family, 
I am extremely humbled, greatful, and want to thank everyone for their generosity. Seeing and hearing the outpouring of love has been deeply moving and honestly hard to comprehend. I also want to thank you for the love you've shown my family through this tough time. I have truly been given the gift of life and I am determined to heal from this. Saying Thank you doesn’t even begin to describe my gratitude. I am forever humbled by this experience. 

For more info on Strokes please visit



Mike. 

 
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