Michael

In August 2022, my husband, Michael at age 55, was diagnosed with Glioblastoma grade IV, the day after our daughter’s wedding. In an instant, our life turned upside down. Michael passed away in August 2023, a year after his diagnosis. Through it all, Michael was determined, positive, and fought until the end, enduring 2 brain surgeries, 40 radiation treatments, 40 doses of oral chemotherapy, 10 blood transfusions, over 60 trips from Sarnia to London, 170 days in the hospital, and 219 days at home, in addition to right sided weakness, difficulty forming words and compromised vision. Losing use of his dominant right arm did not deter him as he adjusted to be a leftie. His “wonky” right leg only slowed him down but did not stop him. His sense of humour remained intact. First and foremost, Michael was a wonderful husband and father but also a son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend. Professionally, Michael was a teacher and a vice principal, touching the lives of colleagues and students alike. He was respected and admired by so many. We could not have been on this journey without the love and support from so many family and friends. Together, our kids and I were with Michael one day at a time. We made new memories together, we laughed together, we cried together, and stood by each other. It was a year of heartbreaks and heartaches with so many good times in between. One day at a time, we are learning to navigate life without Michael. We will continue to raise awareness for Glioblastoma and hope for a cure.
Kindly donated by Paula