was a courageous inspiration to many cancer patients in the River Valley area. He was well known for his wonderful sense of humor and his great outlook on life.

Michael was diagnosed with testicular cancer in December 1984. It quickly metastasized to his brain. He was a college student and a great athlete so this was a tremendous blow for him. Through all this he met the love of his life and was married.

Together we fought his cancer with determination that only true love can do. We looked for new treatments, clinical trials, and read any new articles that might make a difference in his cancer. Michael had a great inner strength, but he also had tremendous support from his family and friends.

Michael taught us to look for the best in the worst of situations. He never thought “Why me!” He fought back.

He had a wonderful sense of humor, teased his nurses and played practical jokes that put a smile on everyone’s face.

Michael fought his battle with cancer over 18 years — many, many years beyond his prognosis. He knew and appreciated the value of research, because research gave him the opportunity to see his beautiful daughter Erin grow and enjoy her childhood.

Michael loved Relay For Life. He looked forward to the event every year. He could often be seen scooting around the track in his motorized wheelchair long after the first lap, studying the luminaries and enjoying the atmosphere that makes Relay so special to many survivors. In the early years of Relay For Life, he would try to stay overnight so he wouldn’t miss a moment. He was always smiling … always Michael.

This year is the 10th anniversary of Michael’s passing. We, as a team, hold his memory close and will always be grateful for the gifts he gave us … the power to fight back against cancer, the hope that it will be cured in our lifetime and the strength to pull together as a team and find the best things in the worst situations.