Bret Michaels Remains in Critical Condition Due to Brain Hemorrhage

Bret Michaels remains hospitalized in critical condition after suffering a subarachnoid brain hemorrhage on Thursday. Tests are still being performed to locate the source of the bleeding in Bret Michaels' brain. Michaels, who is best known as the singer for the band Poison as well as his roles on VH1's Rock of Love and as a contestant this season on Celebrity Apprentice remains in the ICU under 24 hour supervision. This is Bret Michaels second medical emergency in less than a month. Michaels underwent an emergency appendectomy earlier in the month and received follow-up care at a facility specializing in the rehabilitation of diabetic patients.

Bret Michaels has had a lifelong struggle with type 1 diabetes, which is known to predispose him to a number of other potential medical problems. I have heard a lot of disturbing speculation regarding Michaels' current condition. There has been a lot of speculation that the singer's past lifestyle choices are to blame for his current condition. These rumors are not only unproven, they aren't helpful. As a trained EMT, I have learned some valuable lessons about sick and injured individuals. People make mistakes and bad choices-what's important is that they learn from them. It isn't helpful to blame a victim's past mistakes for their current problems-it doesn't change the situation. Suggesting that a victim of a brain hemorrhage is at fault for their condition doesn't do anyone any good.

It would be nice if people could keep something in mind as they move through life-everyone is the most important person in the world to someone. Before spreading rumors or saying hurtful things about someone else's loved one who is suffering through a serious medical crisis, think about how you would feel if people did that to you or the person you love the most. It would add stress to a situation that is already extremely stressful. Instead of looking for ways to blame people that are facing life-threatening illness or injuries, it would be much more productive to recognize that their friends and loved ones need support and encouragement. Before spreading hurtful rumors, consider how what you are saying would impact your own family in a similar situation.

Source: Bret Michaels