23 for Mikey

Post-Event Thank You and Achievement Update

In 2021, inspired by Mikey Nichols’ unwavering fighting spirit, 23 for Mikey began as a bold idea: complete 23 long-distance ventures to honor Mikey and raise funds in his name. What followed over the next four years exceeded anything we could have imagined.

Thanks to an incredible community of supporters, donors, friends, and family, we pushed the limits of what could be accomplished in a single day, from sunrise to sunset. These challenges included unforgettable feats such as hiking across the Grand Canyon and surfing for 12 consecutive hours in Belmar, New Jersey. Every mile, every wave, and every step was powered by your belief in this mission.

On August 4, 2025, we completed the final official challenge of 23 for Mikey by summiting Mount Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous United States. Carrying a Mike Nichols Foundation flag to the 14,505-foot summit marked the culmination of a 23-mile round-trip hike with more than 6,000 feet of elevation gain through the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It was the most demanding day hike of our lives and the most meaningful.

This final achievement represents more than the completion of a goal. It symbolizes the passing of the baton. What began as a personal challenge inspired by Mikey has now evolved into something larger. Our 23rd and final fundraising effort has become the first major milestone in the continued growth of the Mike Nichols Foundation and its mission to support individuals living with spinal cord injuries.

This success belongs to everyone who stood with us along the way. Your generosity helped fund critical medical care, rehabilitation, assistive technology, and essential support services that are often not covered by insurance. More importantly, you helped build awareness, momentum, and hope for the paralysis community.

We are deeply grateful to every person who supported, donated, shared, encouraged, and believed in 23 for Mikey. This journey was never walked alone, and its impact will continue far beyond the finish line.

With heartfelt thanks,

23 for Mikey