October 7, 1999….one of the best and most amazing days of our lives…the day our beloved Michael was born. Today is Michael’s 18th birthday. We could never have known or imagined that we would be marking this important day, the milestone of turning 18 by honoring our precious boy instead of celebrating with him.

Today and everyday, Michael is woven throughout our hearts and minds. He has left a permanent mark on the lives of so many, most especially his family and friends. The indescribable love and the beautiful memories are all of ours, forever.

There’s no doubt in our minds that Michael would have accomplished great things in this lifetime. He had already done that in his 16 years of living on this earth.  He lived his life with love, kindness, gratitude, humility and passion. And he lived every day to the fullest. He taught us so much by his example.

Michael’s precious life continues to make a difference, a big difference in the lives of others through the work of just1mike, the foundation formed in his honor.  Along with Young Hearts for Life and Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital, just1mike sponsored an all school cardiac screening day at Hinsdale Central High School. Held on Sept. 7th, almost 1,900 students were given a free EKG test and with 13 abnormal EKGs, five of which diagnosed definitive heart conditions that are associated with sudden cardiac death. We know lives were saved that day. Michael’s life, making a life saving difference for others.

Today and every day comes with a heart ache like no other. Our hearts will forever be broken without our sweet boy. But we will continue to celebrate all that he was, all that he did, the incredible love that he shared and how he will continue help save the lives of others.

Happy 18th birthday in Heaven sweet angel, we love you more than we could ever put into words…we will love you forever and ever ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️.