Help Little Mikele Heal After a Devastating Accident

Story

A Tragic Accident on Memorial Day

On Memorial Day 2025, little Mikele and his family were enjoying a visit to his grandparents’ home for an afternoon of togetherness and fun. True to his energetic and curious nature, Mikele eagerly explored the yard, chasing wild bunnies and searching for rocks and animals—his favorite things to do.

In a heartbreaking instant, Mikele accidentally fell into a fire pit that was still smoldering from earlier in the day. His father, seeing it about to happen and shouting “NO!”, sprinted to him and pulled him out within seconds. But the metal of the fire pit was still extremely hot, and it was immediately clear that Mikele had suffered severe burns to both arms.

Emergency Surgery and a Long Road Ahead

He was rushed to Golisano Children’s Hospital in Syracuse, NY, where the incredible doctors and staff quickly began treatment. After initial wound care and debridement, they determined that Mikele would need extensive skin graft surgery, which was performed the very next day.

The hours-long surgery involved grafting skin from his thigh to both arms, with particular focus on his right hand. Mikele is now in recovery, but the road ahead is long. Doctors have advised that he remain home for at least a year to heal and to minimize the risk of infection. Even after the initial recovery, he will require lifelong care and maintenance for his injuries.

A Family Facing the Unexpected

Mikele’s parents, Matthew and Christine, had just recently graduated from college—an incredible achievement accomplished while working full-time and raising a family. Now, one of them will need to pause their career to care for Mikele full-time. In addition to lost income, the family faces significant out-of-pocket expenses for medical care, physical and psychological rehabilitation, and ongoing support for both Mikele and his parents.

Your support—whether through donations, sharing this page, or offering words of encouragement—means the world to this loving and resilient family. Every contribution helps ease the burden and brings hope to Mikele’s healing journey.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for supporting Mikele and his family in this time of need.

Organizers :

Co-organized
Michael Riggin and Peggy Riggin are organizing this fundraiser on behalf of Matthew Riggin.