In Memory of Michael Holland

Michael Holland was a kind and gentle soul. He was a father, a partner, a brother, a son, an uncle, and most recently, as his granddaughter called him, a “jampa”. He loved spending time with loved ones, cracking jokes, listening to live music, and of course, cheering on his beloved Patriots and Tom Brady.

In July 2023, after months of investigating troubling symptoms, he was diagnosed with Stage 4 esophageal cancer. Just before learning this devastating news, he had started a new job at Walgreens, training to be a manager, after decades spent working in grocery stores and restaurants. He had every intention of continuing to work, but the intense bi-weekly rounds of chemotherapy landed him in the hospital five times. At the end of October, doctors discovered more tumors along his spinal cord, and radiation was added to his treatment. By the end of December, the cancer stopped responding to treatment, and while hospitalized, Michael lost the function of his lower body. After two weeks spent in the oncology unit at UNC Hospitals, with his family’s support, he decided to move to hospice. By January 21, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones.

Everyone’s cancer journey is different. Michael wanted to continue working - his tenacity on the job was one of his defining characteristics - but the treatments and his condition left him unable to leave the house many days. His passing has not only been emotionally devastating but has also put an immense financial strain on his partner and our mom, Diane.

Any donations will go toward bills that have fallen behind in the fall due to Michael’s inability to work and expenses for his memorial service later this spring. We are greatly appreciative of any help - be it financial or emotional - throughout this challenging time for our family.