Michael Sloman, Donor, Johns Hopkins Burn Center

At age six, Michael Sloman was in a fire that caused third-degree burns on 35 percent of his body. He was a patient in the Johns Hopkins Burn Center for three months, then back in the hospital for three or four surgeries each year until he was fully grown.

The incident left physical and emotional scars. Michael confides that other children made fun of his appearance at school and, because of his injuries, was unable to certain things that he could have done if he was not burned. Still, this burn survivor appreciated the care he received and now reaches out to help ensure that others receive the medical treatment they need.

“A few years ago, I decided that I wanted to start giving back to the community,” Michael explains. “In investigating my options, I thought, ‘Why give to other charities when I can give to the place that saved my life?’ Being burned was an experience I will never forget. I know now that there’s so much more they can do to heal burn survivors physically and emotionally. I am just grateful that I’m at a point in my life and career where I can give something back. It’s very satisfying to be able to do something to help other burn survivors get the best care.”