I do not know what more to say about my brother-in-law Michael Lovato. I do know this… I always knew he was a fighter. What I guess I did not know is just how strong of a fighter he is. After several days of being completely unresponsive, the last few, he has been all but that. I was so amazed yesterday when I called my mom for an update. She was at the hospital and actually put me on the phone with Mike–who talked to me! I was so blown away that I didn’t say everything I wish I would have said, but I did tell him that I, along with my family (the OP Elledges), love him so much and are praying for him hourly. He thanked me, and it was a joyous occasion. Then today, I wake to the news that the doctors and nurses are amazed that he is where he is today, and they decided to resume treatment rather than just hospice care. I do not know today if Mike will win the ultimate battle of his young life, but I am convinced more than ever he has a lot of fight left in him. And based on his past, I would not be surprised in the least bit if he doesn’t knock out his opponent, despite him being the underdgog.
Mike truly gives me a whole new perspective on life. I sit here today, troubled with my own life events… but nothing compares to what Mike is going through. And I know, if he can continue to fight the good fight, well hell, so can I. And today, more than ever, I intend to. If I learn nothing else from Mike, I learn that fighting to overcome hardships and obstacles ain’t no thing. So I will. And it WILL change my life. He is fighting for life, and inspiring me to change mine. I pray the outcome for both is a victory. Don’t get me wrong at all… Mike’s fight is much more real and courageous than mine. But I am going to model my remaining life, no matter how long that is, to be like his.
I continue to pray for Mike and my sister and family, I pray for comfort and I pray for him to defeat this big, bully “Cancer”. I know he can. And I know my sister can remain strong. And further, I know I can learn from them both, and change my life accordingly.
Love to and prayers for Mike, Stephanie, Stevie, and Ashely, along with the rest of my family….
–RElledge
