The doctors diagnosed Michael about the same time he started kindergarten at Ridgemoor. By May of that year, they had scheduled his surgery and the staff at Ridgemoor held a blood drive in the parking lot. His Kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Penny Cook was there at the hospital with the family and would not leave the hospital until she had a chance to see Michael in recovery. During last years Heart Walk, Mrs. Cook and Michael’s current third grade teachers Miss Myers and Mrs. Jacobs joined “The Start! Heart Walk” in San Diego and walked with Michael and his team. Michael’s family think Ridgemoor Elementary is a wonderful school and staff.

This past April, George Espinoza the custodian at Ridgemoor Elementary, had a mild heart attack. The staff and students are extremely close to Mr Espinoza and Michael was especially concerned about him. According to Michael’s mother, Liz Fritchman, when Mr Espinoza returned to work, Michael recruited him to join his team and Mr Espinoza said, “Life is very important and you have to take care of yourself."  He let Michael know that as long as he's around he will be walking with him.

The Start! Heart Walk takes place on Saturday, September 20, 2008 in beautiful Balboa Park this year.  The San Diego Start! Heart Walk is a great way for companies and employees to get involved in the American Heart Association’s fight against heart disease and stroke.  This year they hope to raise $2.00 million to support cardiovascular and stroke research and education programs. Michael’s team has raised over $3,300 but still has a way to go towards his goal of $10,000. The event is a great opportunity that combines a sense of fun, spirited competition and physical fitness.

Team up with Michael and the American Heart/Stroke Association’s fight against heart disease and stroke with a generous donation at Michael’s TEAM website. Better yet, come join his team at The San Diego Start! Heart Walk on Saturday, September 20.