Mike and I began our Friends of Mike walk team in 2016. At that time, Mike was still able to drive, go fishing and kayaking, and go see live bands. We went (and finished!) the McMenamin’s Cosmic Tripster passports by going to every single McMenamin’s in Oregon and Washington. Mike was in a clinical trial, and we had high hopes of his being cured by the new miracle drug he was taking and then resuming our lives. 

For those of you who know Mike, you know he’s kind of quiet and doesn’t like to bring attention to himself. I’m here to tell you that Mike pushed past any discomfort to advocate for awareness, more research for a drug that either slowed or halted the progress, and support for those affected by Alzheimer’s Disease. He went to the Advocacy Forums in Washington DC, and he spoke with our Oregon legislators. He did the same thing in Salem. There were two TV news segments on our struggle. When he was no longer able to advocate in DC, he wrote a letter for our Oregon delegation to read. That year, at every meeting, along with the fact sheets on our asks for the year, our legislators got a copy. Looking back at his courage, it blows me away. 

This is why I’m continuing the Friends of Mike team and will be until we have a cure. He would want it. I know, because I saw what it meant to him, and how happy he was to soak in all the love and support. 

Our team was totally digital last year, and thanks to all of you, we raised a lot of money for the cause. This year Friends of Mike will be there in person. Mike won’t be there, but I will be. I hope you’ll join me. Together, we can remember good times with Mike, and if you’re not too shy, I’d like to include your messages in a video I’ll make for Mike to see.