January of 2007 wasn’t the start of a very happy new year for Manhattan’s Michael K.

“I was home between assignments as an Internet marketing consultant and decided to clean out some closets,” he said. “While lifting heavy trash bags I felt a muscle strain in my back. The next day I had severe pains in my leg.” Things went from bad to worse over the next 48 hours, with Michael eventually unable to stand and walk without crutches. “I was trying to wait it out, but eventually I had to seek medical help.”

Michael was diagnosed with massive disk herniation and aggravated spinal stenosis. “I had 10 hours of surgery to fuse my spine,” he said. “Hospitalization was followed by time in a rehabilitation facility, then more in a nursing home. All told, I was unable to do much of anything for four full months.”

With no money coming in, Michael fell several months behind in his $1,026 monthly rent.

“I got some help from my church and family but it wasn’t enough,” he said. Still partially disabled and using a walker for mobility, Michael turned to The Bridge Fund in the summer of 2007.

“Shortly after, I got a consulting job in my field,” he said. “Between my own income and a loan from The Bridge Fund for $2,513, I was able to erase the rental arrears and stay in my apartment.”

Now using a cane to get around, Michael said he is back on track financially and considering a business development opportunity. “The Bridge Fund staff was kind, compassionate and courteous. I appreciate not only the financial assistance, but their recognition that sometimes bad things just happen to people.”