Mike is a client in the Rural Solutions program. This program serves Rural Iowans, usually farmers or farm family members, after accident or illness to get them back farming. Mike recently won the Work Award at our Annual Celebration in October.

Mike has always enjoyed an active lifestyle. In May of 2018 he was on a bike ride with his brothers and a cousin in Minnesota. When he thought he was going to hit his brother’s rear tire, he pushed his brakes too hard, causing him to lose control and hit a tree. 

The progress Mike has made since that accident just a year and a half ago is amazing. Mike adapted to a wheelchair soon after the accident. At 59 years of age, Mike wanted to continue his life-long career as a farm manager and accountant. With the support of Easterseals Iowa and Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services, modifications were made to Mike’s rural home in Iowa Falls as well as his historical office in downtown Iowa Falls.

Mike wanted to serve his customers as well or better than before his accident, so with the help of Easterseals and IVRS he obtained a van with hand controls, a lift and a GPS system. He also obtained a flying drone, which required training and mastery—as the drone is so large it’s registered with the Federal Aviation Association. An Action Track Power Chair supports Mike in accessing fields to better evaluate sod drainage and crop conditions to complete reports to his customers.

Mike has let nothing deter him. He is positive, optimistic and collaborative. His disability does not deter his ambition, courage or desire to work and to serve others.