Michael's Challange

My big brother, Mike Cortes, has never been one to shy away from a challenge. Now, he’s facing the biggest one of his life.. esophageal cancer that has spread.

Let me tell you about Mike.  As two very close brothers growing up in Duluth, Minnesota, I had the good fortune of watching Mike overcome challenges all the way to the top. I literally followed in his footsteps from Pee Wee A hockey to Division 1 college hockey. I watched as he faced and conquered, every challenge thrown his way. I was two years younger and just played "follow the leader" because I knew my brother knew what he was doing!. He was the starting goalie for the legendary Duluth East High School Greyhounds. From there, Mike went on to play for the Dubuque Fighting Saints of the USHL where he stepped up to the challenge once again and helped his team win a National Championship. Mike was fortunate to play on what many call, the best team to ever play in the USHL.  "Follow the leader," I said to myself. I played goalie for the Saints the following two years after Mike left. Mike's next challenge was to become a Division 1 college goaltender.  He found a home in his hometown of Duluth playing for the three-time National Champions University of Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs. The pride I felt when he called me in Dubuque to tell me he was getting his first college hockey start was amazing. I knew it was his dream, and mine, since we were two little goalies playing outside for Duluth Portman Hockey. I chose to play goalie for the Bulldogs biggest rival, the University of Minnesota Gophers. Talk about sibling rivalry.

Mike overcame all of the hockey challenges he faced and made it to the top of the college hockey pyramid! 

Now, he’s the father of two great kids and one of them also has dreams of playing college sports. His daughter Kaia is on a top-ranked national travel softball team, the 16u Tampa Mustangs. Mike is filled with pride traveling around the country with his daughter as she tries to realize her dream. He’s also filled with pride watching his oldest, son Cade, make the Dean’s list at Florida State University majoring in finance and history. Those kids are Mike’s world.

Mike’s newest challenge is his biggest ever... overcoming cancer… and this battle is going to be even tougher. What Mike thought was chronic laryngitis a few months ago turned out to be esophageal cancer. Unfortunately, it has spread to his lungs and liver. This is going to be a costly fight and that’s where I’m hoping friends and family can help. If you are able, I know Mike will appreciate every single donation made on this site. So many people have asked how they can help and I think this is the easiest and best way you can show your support for Mike right now. Please keep the prayers coming and we will keep you updated on Mike’s progress. Thank you from the entire Cortes clan!