Help Michael and His Family

In February 2015 Michael received the diagnosis of Esophageal Cancer.  It is with sadness that we must inform you that on November 11, 2017 Michael began to receive Hospice services.  This has brought profound sadness to Michael as well as Joanna and their children – the most important people in his life.

 After Michael’s initial diagnosis, he approached his fight against cancer as he does all things in life – with a positive attitude, a sense of humor, a continued focus on his family’s needs, and the determination to beat the cancer.  After selling his business, MIchael had planned to continue working. Unfortunately he was forced to retire because of his illness.

Michael has spent many years of his life selflessly giving to others.  He volunteered by making Chaplin visits to Jewish people in St. Paul hospitals as well as volunteering on the board of Chesed Shel Emes Cemetery where served as the board’s president and chairman. He quietly participated in many other volunteer activities that benefitted so many in our community.

Now that Michael has begun his Hospice journey, we are asking our community to show their support for Michael and his family.  Over the past two and a half years medical expenses have grown ever greater as Michael’s medical interventions have become more frequent and intensive.   Additionally the costs of everyday living have added up as Michael hasn’t been able to work.

 You can receive updates on how Michael is doing through his CaringBridge site located at:  https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/michaelvolk.

 All funds raised through this campaign will be deposited in an account in Michael and Joanna’s name.  The funds will directly support the financial needs of the family related to Michael’s medical costs and needs related to Michael not working the past two and a half years.

 Thank you for your support of Michael, Joanna, and their children, Gordy, Eli, Sophia, and Jillian as they move through this deeply difficult and sad journey.