Scholarship
The Michael’s Way Scholarship Program was established to further support the student’s college aspirations. This was our second year and we received over 130 applications. The $5,000 Scholarships were sent directly to the institution. Please read more about our 2023 recipients below:
A huge thank you to our Board Members for sponsoring 5 scholarships! Thank you to everyone who applied and congratulations to the following 2023 Scholarship Recipients:
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Shamari Brazile
Diagnosed at 13 years old with Osteosarcoma. Enrolled at George Washington University Honors Program majoring in International Affairs.
“Every so often, I think back to the younger version of myself who didn’t worry about the future. But, then I remember that I am a product of my environment. I am made from my war. And no matter who I am or what I’ve been through, I will still become the best version of myself.”
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Jack Hagemeister
Diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia at the age of 14. Will attend University of Southern California in the Fall.
“People who have never experienced cancer think it’s a solo battle to win, but I know better. After my experience with leukemia- more than two years of treatment, not attending school Freshman year, 50 plus nights in the hospital- I know my community is what got me through.”
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Aurora Kimball
At the age of 7, she was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Enrolled at Berry College as a double major in the pre-vet track of Animal Science and Biology.
“Meeting her was the greatest gift that I could have ever received while in that hospital. She showed me how to be brave even in the toughest of times. I will forever be grateful for how much she helped me fight through my diagnosis.”
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Mackenzie Levi
Diagnosed with Medulloblastoma at 2 years old. Attending Christopher Newport University in the Fall with plans to become a pediatric doctor.
“Being a teenager and requiring multiple procedures and checkups led me to become anxious about doctors’ visits. I was waiting for the next shoe to drop because I understood what it meant, and the thoughts of a treasure chest visit didn’t soothe me like it did when I was young.”
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Luke Vazdauskas
In 2020, he was diagnosed with B Cell Lymphoblastic Lymphoma. Will attend Bowdoin College in the Fall.
“Soccer had always been the sport I loved, but now I couldn’t play it. So instead, my father and I began to play table tennis. My dad will tell you that the games were close, but his bald sixteen-year-old son was still crushing him despite undergoing chemo.”
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