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Wilson said that Michael's height measured at 6 feet 5 inches when he was about 15 years old, though his doctors never pegged the growth spurt as a cause for concern.

Fairchild said that despite having surgery, Michael still has a residual enlarged aorta and will likely need another surgery. Michael will be treated at CCMC throughout his lifespan, Fairchild added.

To reduce strain on his aorta, Michael, a senior in high school, has activity restrictions and must refrain from his favorite sport of basketball.

\"PHOTO:
Courtesy Nicole Wilson
PHOTO: Michael Wilson, 17, of Norwich-resident in Connecticut, tested positive for COVID-19 on Oct. 8, 2020.
>

With February being Marfan Awareness Month, Wilson said it was important for her to share her family's journey.

Wilson said she's built a GoFundMe to raise money for a therapy dog for Michael.

\"It's affected him emotionally,\" Wilson said. I can't be with him all the time -- especially now. His siblings have doctor appointments.\"

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Marfan Foundation (@themarfanfoundation)

\"The dog will be there if he gets dizzy or passes out and will help him. Anybody who may be there will know he has a heart condition,\" she added. \"He needs this protection so he can go out and enjoy life.\"

Regarding COVID-19, Michael said his message to others is to not take the virus lightly.

\"COVID isn't a joke,\" he told \"GMA.\" \"It's serious, it kills people and it puts people in hospital.\"

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