Michael’s Story
Michael Lee Sparling was raised in Northern California, surrounded by a close-knit family and a strong community of friends. From an early age, he demonstrated an adventurous spirit and a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He was actively involved in sports, including soccer and football, and found his greatest passion in snowboarding—an activity that reflected his love for challenge, discipline, and perseverance.
In the aftermath of September 11, 2001, Michael felt a profound calling to serve his country. While still in middle school, he expressed his desire to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather and pursue a future in the United States Army. At the age of 21, Michael enlisted and went on to complete One Station Unit Training (OSUT) at Fort Benning, Georgia. He graduated on April 29, 2011—his 22nd birthday. Following the ceremony, his drill sergeant shook his hand and told him, “Son, you will do great things.” The pride Michael carried that day reflected the leader and man he had become.
After graduation, Michael returned home for two weeks before reporting to his first duty station at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas—the same installation where his grandfather had once been stationed. During this time, he reconnected with family and friends and, on Mother’s Day, May 8, 2011, was rebaptized, reaffirming his faith and commitment to his values. He reported to Fort Bliss on May 11, 2011, eager to begin the next chapter of his military service.
On June 1, 2011, during a routine physical training run with his squad, Michael collapsed and suffered sudden cardiac arrest. Although medical personnel were able to revive him multiple times, he experienced complete organ failure and passed away later that morning at 11:17 a.m. He was 22 years old.
Michael’s passing left his family and community devastated and searching for answers. As a healthy, athletic young soldier, the circumstances surrounding his death were deeply concerning. Subsequent investigation revealed that Michael had recently begun taking a pre-workout supplement purchased on base, commonly known as Jack3D or “Jacked.” He consumed the product as directed, unaware that it contained dimethylamylamine (DMAA), a powerful stimulant. Medical experts and health regulators have since reported that DMAA can significantly elevate heart rate and blood pressure and may have effects similar to amphetamines.
Following Michael’s death, the supplement was immediately removed from the military base, and in December 2011, the U.S. Department of Defense eliminated all products containing DMAA from military exchanges. In April 2012, federal health regulators issued a formal warning regarding DMAA, citing its association with serious cardiovascular risks, including heart attacks. Dr. Pieter Cohen, an expert in dietary supplement research, described DMAA as “a pharmaceutical-grade product introduced into the supplement marketplace with virtually no regulatory oversight.”
It was later determined that two additional soldiers at Fort Bliss also lost their lives after using DMAA-containing supplements, and many others nationwide have suffered long-term health consequences linked to similar products. These findings underscored the urgent need for greater awareness, education, and prevention related to unregulated dietary supplements.
The Michael Lee Sparling Foundation was established to honor Michael’s life, values, and commitment to serving others. Through youth support, education, and community engagement, the Foundation seeks to transform tragedy into purpose—protecting young lives, raising awareness, and ensuring that Michael’s legacy continues to make a meaningful and lasting impact.
To learn more about the federal indictment of the Jack3d creators, please see the following links:
IN BRIEF: USPLabs execs sentenced to prison in supplement fraud case | Reuters
This Foundation was created to honor Michael’s Legacy and his love for serving others. We hope to make him proud.
Learn more about the dangers of pre-workout supplements below.
