Michael Ferrell

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The author of "Michael's Story" is his sister, Mary.  A story has a beginning, middle, and end.  However, this is Michael Matthew Ferrell's Story.  True to Michael, life is a musical.  both figuratively and metaphorically.  I will share the beginning and middle. There is no end.  A musical has no end.  The score of a musical lives in our hearts forever.  As I write Michael's Story, so many melodies from musicals are playing through my mind.  As you are reading Michael's Story, hear the show tunes, listen for the songs.  Michael's journey began last summer.  He was diagnosed with stage 4, small cell lung cancer.  During this time, Michael was instrumental in the care of our mom, Dyan Ferrell.  Michael, concerned about those around him, chose not to share the severity of the diagnosis.  Treatment for the cancer began last fall.  He was involved in a trial program in which neither he, nor the doctor, knew the type of treatment Michael was receiving.  Sadly, we lost mom to Covid  in December.  Being immunocompromised dealt Michael a huge blow in being able to see mom,  especially at the end of mom's journey.  Through all of it, Michael persevered.  This is Michael.  He perseveres when faced with challenges.  Given an optomistic report regarding his treatment in early spring, there was hope.  Hope to continue to choreograph his personal musical.  Michael's musical included so many people, props, set designs, scenes,  music, and dance.  Michael had a gift for dance and choreography.  He dove into his passion, working with the seniors in his "Alive & Kickin" performing group.  A talented group of people supported Michael in his work with" Alive & Kickin."  It was a team effort!  Unfortunately, the optimism surrounding the cancer was short lived.  Michael celebrated his 61st birthday on May 15th.  Shortly afterwards, Michael learned that the cancer had spread.  Nothing more could be done.  Michael is lovingly being cared for in his home by his partner, Jeffrey and the care team from Grace Hospice.  Instead of visits and phone calls, we will be setting up a prayer box where people can share their love, words of support on an index card.  The card can be left in the box and shared with Michael.  Michael, through his work, has touched many people in so many ways.  I'm not doing his story justice.  In this moment, let the score of a melody sing through your mind.  Hum or sing the song to a loved one.  Michael would want this.