Dedicated nonprofit executive juggles chemotherapy and radiation treatment

Before visiting the Gabriel House, Michael was a navy pilot at the US Naval Academy for 25 years, completed a Master’s degree in Computer Science, was CEO of a division of Westinghouse, and for the past 10 years worked as a consultant on the economic development for various nonprofit organizations.

And after being diagnosed with esophageal cancer just a few weeks ago, Michael would tell you he slowed down in terms of his work, but his wife Julie begs to differ, as he still consults for nonprofits in Puerto Rico while remaining active as a member on multiple boards across the United States.

Michael is passionate about his work in the nonprofit sector and prides himself on being as impactful for the community as he possibly can, even a year after retiring. After being diagnosed, Michael and Julie swiftly moved from their house in South Carolina to the Gabriel House for the next six weeks so Michael could receive intensive chemotherapy and radiation treatment while still managing to work part-time.

 “Once we found out about his cancer- we were all in. We weren’t here to mess around,” Michael said after completing his first week of chemotherapy.

Julie added, “Usually I am the one who is sick and looked after so now it is finally my time to take care of Michael.” They have been together for 45 years, and have been inseparable since meeting when Julie was in high school and Michael was a sophomore in the Naval Academy.

As Julie put it, “as long as we’re both together, everything is okay.”

While it’s hard for both of them, the ‘community of healing’ centered mission of Gabriel House reminds them a lot of when they both volunteered and cooked at the Fisher House, another community that supports veteran families.

“You don’t understand the importance of an environment like this until you’re going through something. This is a great resource that everyone should take advantage of and support, to make it available for others in the future.” Michael said.

They feel at home at the Gabriel House and feel at ease after just one week of staying here. After his treatment is over, Michael is also going to undergo surgery and will prolong his stay at the Gabriel House.

One thing both Michael and Julie are looking forward to after his treatment and COVID are behind them is resuming their travels! Both of them have been to all of the states in the US and have lived abroad together in Iceland, Spain, Portugal, Turkey, and Sicily. One of their favorite past times together is delving into the history and culture of places. They had a cruise planned to go to Vienna for their 45th anniversary which was this past week.

Due to Michael’s health, however, we get the pleasure of having them stay with us for their anniversary!

Happy belated Anniversary Michael and Julie! We love hearing how our community of healing touches our guests!