Michael Fisher’s zest for life was contagious. As an adventurous 9-year-old, he crackled with wit, energy, and determination. He admired the power and heroics of superheroes, particularly Spiderman. Much of his free time was spent reading, riding bikes, making videos, working with tools on various projects, and playing video games with his younger brother and friends.
In addition to being a loving son, brother, and friend, Michael was a gifted fourth grader and natural leader who always looked out for others. He would often complete his classroom work and then immediately help peers with their assignments.
“Michael gave the biggest bear hugs and had beautiful, mesmerizing eyes,” his mother, Elizabeth Fisher, said.
In 2019, Michael experienced a tragic accident. After hours in the emergency room, the doctor told his parents that Michael would not recover, as his brain had gone too long without oxygen.
Knowing Michael would have wanted to help others, Elizabeth made the decision for him to become a tissue and cornea donor. She always knew he was destined to do great things, so it was fitting that Michael’s final act was one of heroic kindness.
Michael’s friends and family said goodbye to him with the help of the compassionate staff at St. Vincent Healthcare, with recordings made of his heartbeat and a sculpture made of Michael’s hands — a gift cherished by his family.
During Michael’s “Celebration of Life,” family and friends wore tie-dye and superhero attire in his honor. His classmates gave loving tributes, warmly remembering how Michael would make them laugh so hard during lunch that orange juice came out their noses. Michael’s aunt read the book “On The Night You Were Born” by Nancy Tillman, which was followed a song created with Michael’s heartbeat. Finally, they played a video with clips from his life, starting when he was a baby and ending with 9-year-old Michael looking into the camera and saying, “I love you.”
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