NADCA Community Roots for Jan "Merk" Mrkonich's Speedy Recovery

Merk, far left, with friends at the 2011 NADCA Annual Meeting

If you've ever attended a NADCA Annual Meeting or have shopped for duct cleaning equipment, it's likely that at some point you've also shared good times with Jan Mrkonich -- or "Merk" as he's known to most people in our industry.  

You might have spent time with Merk at "The Booth" or exchanged banter with him over a drink at the bar. Either way, you know that Merk's jovial personality doesn't rest easily. Merk is a long-time staple at industry events, and is known for his hearty, straight-forward disposition and dedication to his business.

Many people in the NADCA community were deeply affected upon hearing that Merk suffered a severe stroke on Friday, May 13. He spent several weeks in the Neurointensive Care Unit at St. Luke's Hospital in Milwaukee, WI. In the past week, Merk has undergone a procedure to install a permanent shunt that will drain excess cranial fluid to his abdomen. Along with the outpouring of support from the NADCA community, his family and close friends have kept him company throughout this ordeal.

His family and friends have also kept a journal of Merk's progress, which is located here. There is still no formal prognosis, yet his friends and family are all hoping for the best and keeping him in their prayers.

Complicated medical issues such as Merk's are unfortunately also accompanied by overwhelming medical bills, unforeseen expenses, and the loss of significant income. Recently, a benefit account was set up by Merk's friends at Meyer Machine & Company. Through "Friends of Merk," cash donations are made available to his family in order to assist with the unexpected costs they are facing due to travel, meals away from home, overnight stays, medical bills and rehabilitation expenses.  

If you would like to make a donation or send your best wishes, please forward them to:

Friends of Merk

c/o Jim Meyer

351 Main Street

Antioch, IL 60002

On Wednesday, June 15, Merk's family and friends celebrated as he was moved out of the ICU and to another area of the hospital. Please continue to root for Merk's recovery, so that we may have the pleasure of his company at the next NADCA Annual Meeting, and many more after that.