Bonners Ferry’s miracle “Superman” continues to recover, but he’s no longer at Providence St. Luke’s Rehabilitation Medical Center, Spokane. Mikey Bjoraker called Saturday evening, January 18, saying he continues to work hard in hopes of returning home soon, perhaps in as little as a month. What he didn’t say, and what didn’t seem even remotely possible — is that he was released from St. Luke’s and into the care of Connie Mieryteran and her husband, David Fox, in Bonners Ferry, on January 6.
Mikey, 45, was struck by a car while crossing Highway 95 on his way to Liberty Qwik Stop on Bonners Ferry’s South Hill at about 5:48 p.m. Tuesday, November 26.
Mikey was flown to Kootenai Health, Coeur d’Alene, where he fell into a coma, and he was transferred to North Idaho Advanced Care, Post Falls, December 7, where he surprised everyone, waking, hearing people, his closed eyes following them. He began speaking and revealed that Mikey was still in there, intact, despite the major trauma. He was later sent to St. Luke’s Rehab, Spokane, where his grit and determination impressed doctors and therapists alike with his motivation and drive.
By January 6, he was walking with assistance, now at Connie’s, Mikey is working on regaining his balance as he rebuilds the strength that once propelled his purposeful stride up and down the streets of the South Hill, his brisk step punctuated often by the big smile that lit up when he recognized passers by, the cheerful wave that lifted countless spirits.
To help, 9B.News has established the “Let’s show Mikey how much he’s loved” fundraiser on GoFundMe, to be administered by Connie to help with expenses for travel to and from appointments, equipment he’ll need for rehab and to help get his house set up for his return home.
“I always knew I loved Mikey,” Connie said, “I just never appreciated how much. Thank you for helping … every donation and every prayer will be appreciated, and all will be used to help Mikey put his life and his world back together.”
Donations, made payable to Connie Mieryteran, can be sent to Mikey, c/o 9B News, 6619 Kaniksu St., Bonners Ferry, ID 83805.