The Donaldson family wishes to express deep appreciation for the loving community of Fairbanks. We are overwhelmed with the generosity and care shown to us as Mike’s health took a turn this fall and winter.

To be blunt - the story of Mike’s battle with lung cancer has been a hard one. Between the lobectomy; the chemotherapy and all of its less-than-fun (probably type 3 fun) complications; and countless trips to the ER, doctors office, and hospitals; the routine has not been steady nor simple.

My family is helping set up a Caring Bridge site so we can get news out and schedule visits (physical and digital) around other obligations so that the time available can be used most efficiently in relationship-building and giving some rest and respite to my family care givers.

However, at its core, God has reminded us daily of his presence and his zeal, challenging us to run to him in faith. At present, there are some things that appear to be certain for this next chapter.

What we know:

• The benefit of treatment (chemotherapy) is outweighed by its physical toll, and is no longer viable for Mike to continue active treatment.
• Mike’s time with us here on Earth will come to a close soon, barring a miracle from God.
• Quality time with family and friends is priority number one.
• Hospice isn’t a cake walk! As much as we try to muscle through things on our own, help is always appreciated and welcome.

No matter when you may have entered into this story, we are thankful for you for checking into our lives and shining hope. Caring Bridge One of the highlights of the past few months has been the time of reflection and memory sharing with Mike. We hope to continue to share these moments with you, whether in person or over the million different ways via the internet.

Of these options, we have landed on Caring Bridge as a tool for us to connect with you and share updates on Mike’s health and latest going-ons.

We recognize that Caring Bridge is heavy with the click bait for donations. While we believe donations to this resource are well-founded and have their virtues, Mike has been covering the costs of hosting this site, and encourages us to instead consider other non-profits for donation. He recommends considering donations to one or all of the all the local non-profits listed below which significantly benefit the community of Fairbanks, and have been part of his Life Story.

• YoungLife
• Child Evangelism (CEF)Alaska
• Literacy Council of Alaska

Website

As we continue to be blessed by family and friends with help and quality time, we have recognized that it has been challenging at times to remain present and in the moment, and not preoccupied. One reason for this is because calendars and organization are tough to adopt into our new routine with Hospice care as well as residing in a new home. In response, Mike set up this web landing space to consolidate resources for time management, requesting help, and sharing memories and stories. With this site, visitors can take a look at Mike and Catherine’s schedule and arrange a visit. Those of you who are interested in helping out can look at the list of needs and coordinate a time. And probably the most exciting feature will be an open forum to share memories, stories, and any fun photos from your own stories! Any photos of Mike with hair get bonus points, and double bonus points for any jorts photos!

Blessings!

The Donaldson Family