I want to be a surgeon because I want to help people that are in need. I know it takes a lot of hard work and a lot of school, but I have a passion for caring for people. I want to make people’s lives a bit easier. I know I can’t do it by myself, but I’ve got God on my side, so…

Michael* is a natural servant leader. He was thrust into that role at a young age as the main caretaker of his family, including his wheelchair-bound older brother. His life experiences have given him a beautiful sense of compassion and an uncommon tenderness for the hurting and those in need.

You cannot leave a conversation with Michael without smiling and thinking, “What a fantastic kid.” You would never guess the difficulties he’s been through or the hardships he has faced and continues to confront. It is lovely to watch God take the messes and the difficulties of Michael’s past and use them to shape him into such a unique and caring soul.

I used to be a bully. I wanted attention even if it was negative. I’ve always been following the crowd because I was scared of standing out and being judged, but then I came to The Children’s Home. I was shown that following the crowd or being outstanding is your choice. If you follow the crowd, then you’re just another kid. If you’re not following the crowd, but doing the best you can at being you, you can change the world in ways that no one has ever seen. – Michael

* name has been changed