In 1992, our two sons, “Little” John and Michael, were both diagnosed with a rare neurological disease called adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD). Only 11 months after the diagnosis, we lost “Little” John at the age of 8. Michael survived a bone marrow transplant that slowed the rapid progression of the disease, but still suffered debilitating seizures throughout the rest of his life.

Despite his setbacks, Michael had a lively spirit, and loved nothing more than to be out on the baseball field with his father John, who was a major league umpire for many years. He took every opportunity he could to join his dad at work.

Soon Michael began helping in the dugout, making friends with the players, and serving as bat boy. Baseball was his greatest passion in life. In April of 2014, we lost Michael after 27 beautiful years with him. In his loving memory, we created The Magic of Michael Foundation.