Help Mike Lavoie beat Cancer

It can happen to anyone.  A routine doctor’s visit launches a life-changing event.  It happened to Mike Lavoie.

Just before the holidays, Mike’s doctor told him he needed additional tests.  The news from doctors after the holidays wasn’t good. Mike had rectum cancer.  Immediately, Mike started a whirlwind of appointments, more tests and medical procedures to prepare for the treatment process.  With all that, he stayed active with his teaching, family, community, church ... and band.

But, life-changing events aren’t something new for Mike.  He’s made a career of making life-changing events for others.

 
A Door Opener

Six years ago Mike had a vision for North Middlesex Regional High School: help devise a post graduate program for 18-22 year old students with disabilities. Prior to this program, students often had to seek placements outside the district and in doing so, would lose their connection with the local community.  With district and community support they created the Gateway Program to develop vocational and life skills for any student, no matter the disability. Mike’s efforts are tireless, wearing many hats to make the Gateway Program the success it is today. It’s become a model program for young adults with disabilities.

He takes a student-centered approach to learning and developing fundamental job and life skills. His philosophy is to pry doors open and make sure they don’t close on any student.  He looks to harness a student’s abilities and turn them into opportunities others never thought possible. The growth that his students achieve from their time at the program is evident by the following former student testimonials.

“This is a small way to give back to a man that has given me so much as a teacher and a friend. Mike taught me to be independent, social, kind, and most of all to give back to the community I belong to. He’s encouraged me to stand up for what I believe in and to never accept anything less. He is someone I can always rely on. I know Mike will always be here for me no matter what. Now it’s my turn to be here for him no matter what. He’s always been supportive of my dreams and has told me to work hard to pursue them. Mike is the kind of man that wouldn’t hesitate to help anyone out whether for family, friends, or a stranger. He has a genuine heart that needs our help during this difficult time he is going through. Mike is involved in Boy Scouts [he’s and Eagle Scout!], his church, and helps out his community and the community where he works. I will do whatever I can to help my friend out. I hope you will too!”

Thank You,

Matthew R.


(Former student)

“I’ve know Mike for nine years and he is by far one of the best teachers and friends you could ask for!”

Lucas B.

(Former student)


The Family

As one of the elder cousins in the family, I can proudly say that I’ve known Mike my entire life. For all these years, Mike has been a shining example of being a devoted husband, father, and grandfather as well as a loyal and caring son and grandson. When my wife called to tell me about Mike’s diagnosis, I couldn’t believe it. Probably, like most of the family, I was in shock. I asked myself: how could this happen? Why did cancer choose Mike...and then I remembered. I remembered who this cancer is up against. Mike has always been the strong leader of the group and is continually setting the example for the rest of us. He’s accepted every challenge thrown his way and persevered through them all. We know that he will overcome this obstacle with the strength and courage that innately embodies him.

We love you and stand behind you now, always, and forever.

-Zacharie St. Jean on behalf of The St. Jean Family

 
The Treatment

Mike’s treatment is underway, and he (and his family) need our help.

The treatment for Mike’s cancer began with five weeks of chemotherapy and daily radiation.  Currently, Mike is in week three. When he completes the chemotherapy Mike will then have a recovery period to prepare for surgery, after which he will need at least five weeks of total bed rest. When the surgery is behind him, he’ll have still more treatments.  

 
Here Come the Costs

Very quickly expenses have become overwhelming for this one-income family. The cost of copayments, gas and parking to-and-from hospitals and cancer centers daily, have come faster than Mike imagined.  Beating this cancer is going to take support in variety of ways, but financial support will be one of the best ways we can help Mike. Consider it payment for a tank of gas, a takeout dinner, a utility payment, or even a cup of coffee.  Your contribution will mean a lot.

We need your help and support so Mike can get back to Gateway and start making more life-changing events for his students.

Thank You!