An online auction will begin on Sept. 1 and run through Sept. 15 to benefit Jan Michael, grandson of Philadelphia-based racehorse trainer Don White. Jan Michael was born prematurely on Feb. 3 with extensive complications, including a cleft lip and palate leaving him unable to swallow, necessitating stomach tube feeding and constant aspiration to prevent choking to death. Proceeds from the auction will be used to pay for home nursing care and other healthcare costs not covered by the family’s insurance.

The auction, supported by numerous horse industry organizations and individuals, will include breedings to such notable sires as Florida’s Marco Bay, Kentucky’s Our Emblem, New Jersey’s Close Up and Contemplate, New York’s Gone for Real. River Keen, and Raffie’s Majesty and Pennsylvania’s Activist, Alyzig, Attorney, Cyclone, Fleg, Flying Pidgeon, Middlesex Drive, Ponche, T.V. Alliance, and Wild West.

Other items up for auction include a three-night stay in a deluxe Ocean City, Md. townhouse, a three-night stay at The Owners Club at The Homestead Resort and Spa in Hot Springs, Va., professional Thoroughbred analyses and matings by various consulting firms, equestrian art prints, autographed books, Breyer Horses, and a variety of equestrian and Thoroughbred memorabilia. Descriptions of all auction items and instructions for placing bids can be found at www.racingdreams.com starting on Aug. 20. Bids can be placed through the web site beginning on Thursday, Sept. 1.

“We are so touched by all of the auction item donations we’ve received from people in the horse business,” said trainer Don White. “I am so proud to be a part of this industry and so thankful to all of the people who are participating in this auction.”
 
The baby has undergone five surgeries to date and is scheduled for at least one more surgery within the next year to repair his cleft palate, now in three pieces, which shoulld him to swallow. His progress is updated periodically at www.janmichael.net