This is Michael's mother writing. I am sorry to write the sad news that Michael passed away early yesterday morning. During the last twelve months, Michael had endured seven hospital stays, each with prolonged home antibiotic IV treatment; he had come home two weeks ago on Hospice Care. He had bravely endured 23 years of Cystic Fibrosis.
Many thanks to YOU, his loyal audience, for being the receivers of his upbeat and endearing daily musings.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
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I’d like to thank Michael for having his blog, for allowing us to see a glimpse of his life and of his family. Through his updates and musings, we were able to learn so much, not only about his life, but life lessons for all. His upbeat attitude and simple observations pointed to what was always most important to him - his family and his friends.
We saw family and friends rally around . . . the friends from the club that brought lemon cake to Michael when he could no longer go there . . . the friends in his fantasy sports leagues . . . the friends with whom to play video games . . . the friends that brought the tropics to Michael since he could no longer travel.
We were able to watch as Marissa, Halley, and Ross visited and interacted with Michael, demonstrating loyalty and friendship that is both amazing and humbling. Facing the grave illness and death of their friend at such an early age and being able to push through that and never waver in their commitment to Michael is an example for all of us. Their fortitude and tenacity will serve them well in their lives and the caring example they set will stay with us. When so many of us didn’t know what to say, they said everything through their actions and through their friendship.
We got to watch Richard and Michael and Patricia grow up. We learned that Tricia likes to be known as “Pat” now and we saw her blossom as she went off to school and taught others about cystic fibrosis . . . and raised money to help find a cure. We were happy when Richard and Michael re-established their friendship, long distance.
And we saw his parents. We smiled as Michael shared the movies that they watched together and the trips they took. We cried along as we read that, after his cochlear implant, Michael heard his mom’s voice for the first time in years.
Michael took such joy from simple pleasures. Playing video games, watching sports, reading books . . . those were the things he enjoyed. Being rushed to New Orleans for better medical attention, he was excited to see Peyton Manning on the plane. Spending time with friends was of maximum priority. When told that the latest medication may not work, “I got in my mom’s arms when everyone left the room and broke down crying that I wasn’t going to get to play street fighter IV against Ross before I died.” We got to celebrate the fact that he did get to play.
We saw that Michael put other people before himself. On Friday, he was more worried about his mom, he wrote . . . that he needed company . . . “because my mom isn't getting out as much so she needs friends to see so she can get a chance to talk.” And he was worried about his grandfather, Carter, from Arkansas . . . “I don't want him to worry. I'm not that sick yet where you need to come down.”
We know that Michael’s siblings are out of town at school and that his dad has work to keep him busy. Taking care of Michael has been Ann’s priority and focus for years. We know that Michael enjoyed and appreciated her loving care as he has said many times. We hope the best for Ann as she adjusts to yet another new role in her life.
Michael’s words, September 25, 2008 (ten year anniversary of CF diagnosis):
“The two best things for me have always been taking my medicine and being able to stay happy and optimistic. I have to thank my friends for their encouragement and motivation in believing in me”
Throughout his illness and through his blog, Michael kept an upbeat attitude throughout this illness and he let us share some very special times with him.
Michael will be missed, even by those of us who never got to meet him.
Hi!
I'm Erika Hidalgo, daughter of Ned Hidalgo from the Baton Rouge office of Boh.
I know Michael is in a better place now...a place without suffering and pain...without hospitals, IV's and antibiotics.
I am so very sorry for your loss. The Boh family will remain in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Erika Hidalgo
Michael has always been a brave fighter. He was always so optimistic, even in the grimmest of times. When Michael had told me about the cochlear implant, I had the biggest smile on my face because the last time I saw him before it was in, his mom had to relay messages to him so he could understand.
Michael is and was a great guy, friend, and a role model to those who are struggling. Whenever I think I'm having a tough day, Michael would always cheer me up. I just wish that somehow, I could attempt to return that favor.
I know that no words can take away the pain that your family is feeling, but just know that Michael will ALWAYS be remembered. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Dearest Boh Family,
My husband Anthony (Tony) is a 3rd generation employee and Superintendent with your company, and I had worked in payroll in N.O. Boh Office for a year. All we can say is that what a truly beautiful family all of you are, and Michael was so blessed to be a part of your family. We are so sorry to hear of your loss. May God Bless all of you through this very difficult time. Please let us know if we can do anything for you.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Tony, Vicki, and Zoe McCallef
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