Bear Necessitees

About this campaign

In August 2023 Michelle suffered a hemorrhagic stroke that left her unable to speak or swallow, with right-sided paralysis. Two days later Joe unknowingly suffered a heart attack, and because of the damage, Joe needed a new heart. These two were in the hospital for months.


The past three years have had Michelle and Joe seeing many doctors and doing a ton of rehab and therapy. Michelle can walk with a cane now, and her speech is much improved, though she doesn't have the use of her right arm. She does exercises every day for it. She is on Disability.
Joe is healthy, but takes a ton of anti-rejection and other medication. He is taking care of Michelle, cooking healthy food, and taking care of the apartment. They live quietly and try to avoid stress--doctor's orders.


Michelle was an artist but can't draw anymore since her stroke. She had the idea of turning some of her pastel drawings, pen & ink designs, and Custom Ink designs into T-shirts to sell. Joe comes up with funny puns and slogans. The name "Bear Necessitees" came from the bear designs she'd made in the past that were Joe's favorites, and the hope that the T-shirt sales would cover some of the "bare necessities" of life.