On December 19, 2025, Mike’s world changed in ways he never could have imagined. What began as a CT scan turned into an urgent ER stay in Augusta that then turned into a 21-day stay at MaineMed Oncology Floor, including a few days in the ICU. Those days were long, frightening, and filled with uncertainty. Within his stay he was diagnosed with Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the nasal/sinus cavity that has eroded through the ethmoid bone as well as bilateral medial orbital walls. He was able to have his first round of chemo completed within his hospital stay and will complete a total of 4 rounds before beginning his radiation treatments at Dana Faber. We are all still trying to wrap our heads around how suddenly life has been turned completely upside down.

Mike has been unable to work since 12/22 as he focuses on his health and recovery. He will likely be out of work around 6 months while receiving treatments and recovering. Tara stayed by his side, using much of her PTO to stay with him throughout his hospital stay. Like many families facing the unexpected, the emotional toll has been heavy—and the financial strain has added another layer of stress during an already overwhelming time.

If you’ve ever been lucky enough to sit at his table, you know one of his greatest joys was cooking. He loves bringing people together through food, and his cooking is nothing short of amazing. Sharing a meal that he prepared always came with laughter, warmth, and a great memory. He is a devoted dad, a loving husband, a proud papa, a caring uncle, and a loyal friend to everyone around him.

As a family, it’s been incredibly difficult to watch someone who has always given so much to others now face so many unknowns. While he focuses on healing and navigating what comes next, we want to do everything we can to ease the financial burden caused by medical bills, time away from work, travel, and daily expenses. Mike, Tara and their two dogs have temporarily moved into Samantha’s apartment so they can help with his care and transportation during treatments.

This is our way of coming together, just as he has always brought people together. It’s a chance to remind a man that he is not alone, and to surround him with the same love and generosity he has always given. Our hope is to help relieve the financial stress so he and Tara can focus on what truly matters—his recovery.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being here, for caring, and for helping us support someone who means more to us than words can ever express. Your love and support will never be forgotten.