ABOUT MIKEY'S WAY FOUNDATION
In March 2004, just after his 15th birthday, Michael Friedman, of Easton, CT, was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Shortly thereafter he began treatment with a brilliant team of doctors at the Sloan-Kettering Memorial Cancer Center in New York City. Michael endured two surgeries, seven rounds of chemotherapy, a stem cell transplant, and radiation therapy, which caused his liver to fail. Fortunately an experimental drug helped it regain function.
Michael was in the hospital for weeks at a time for each of his surgeries and his liver failure, and the intensity of his chemotherapy necessitated prolonged stays on the inpatient ward. Through all the treatment, Michael found ways to take his mind off the monotony of treatment and the prospect of facing an uncertain future. Often too ill to get out of bed, he occupied himself by watching DVD's and playing handheld video games.
Michael was in remission for nine months, during which time he was offered one wish through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Most children opt for a trip to Disney World or a cruise, but Michael wanted his wish to benefit those less fortunate than him.
Realizing that many families can't afford the DVD players and video game systems that helped him through his treatment, Michael decided to use his wish to start The Mikey's Way Foundation. The purpose of the foundation is to better the lives of pediatric cancer patients by striving to alleviate the mental strain of treatment by distributing interactive games and improving the entertainment facilities of hospitals. Using funds from the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Michael made his first distribution to Women and Children's Hospital in Buffalo, New York in December 2005.
Michael has since suffered a relapse, but remains dedicated to helping others. In fact, as CEO of The Mikey's Way Foundation, he now occupies himself by thinking of ways to make the foundation grow, and help as many people as possible.
Updated 5/06
Since Mikey's relapse in November of 2005, he has had a nine week chemo regimen and a third surgery that was able to leave him with no evidence of disease. Mikey is now on another chemo regimen, with the hopes of getting him back into remission.
Updated 5/07
Mikey has been on several therapies that have been able to manage his cancer. Fortunately, he has not had adverse side effects, and has enjoyed a great quality of life. Mikey is doing the things 18 year olds should be doing; vacationing at the beach with family, skiing with his brothers, going to prom with his girlfriend, finishing high school, and going to Harvard University this fall!
We thank you for your interest in The Mikey's Way Foundation and hope you help Mikey in his quest to help others.
[ return to top ]
|
