Wow, Joyce, I can't say how much it hurts to learn about that. Glad that Mike isn't hurt any worse than what you describe, and with your knowledge and experience, it will hopefully be good as new. I agree it's a good time for the firewall sound deadener. I used that standard sound deadener but used a "straw nozzle" from Home Depot that is used for a can of wall texture spray. I experimented with the three varieties of nozzle provided until I got the effect I wanted. The nozzle really helps control where it's applied, although I get judges comments about inadequate sound deadener, too.
If there's anything you need, don't hesitate to contact me. I just drove mine yesterday for the first time in several weeks, too, but thankfully without the drama.