Contributor Eddie Umphrey sent me an e-mail last week bringing my attention to Ian Makowske, MIKEY’S WAY and TEAM MIKEY’S WAY. I immediately knew that I needed to get GYM MOMENTUM behind this. Keep the MOMENTUM going. Spread the word and get involved with MIKEY’S WAY.
Here is an excerpt from his e-mail
Tony,
I first met Ian several years ago when he came to the University of Michigan summer gymnastics camp. He was interested in joining the team and attended the summer camp to get a closer look at the university. Right off the bat, Ian stood out as one of the hardest workers in the camp, but what caught my attention most was his willingness to learn and how earnestly he sought to gain more knowledge. He was very genuine in his training. He told Michigan was at the top of his college list & there was no doubt in my mind that he would be a perfect fit at Michigan. By time Ian had began his time as a Wolverine I had already graduated, but had the pleasure of frequently speaking to Ian and following his progress while on campus. Last year I received a Facebook group invite from Ian to raise awareness of Mikey’s Foundation. It spread across Facebook quickly. In October, 2011 Ian created a way to raise even more support and funds for Mikey’s foundation while still training. Thus, Team Mikey’s Way has now introduced Mikey’s incredible story to the gymnastics world.
Eddie
Since then I have been in touch with Ian, discussing MIKEY’S WAY and finding ways for GYM MOMENTUM to help. Ian’s simple response sealed the deal.
Dear Tony,
My main goal in competing for Team Mikey’s Way is to spread Mikey’s story. Mikey was a great friend, an incredible person, and continues to be a huge inspiration in my life. He left an incredible legacy, tangibly in the Foundation that he created, but intangibly as well in the number of number of people he inspired and the optimism he spread. By telling Mikey’s story I hope to not increase the number of people who know about Mikey’s Way Foundation, but also to honor his memory.
By competing in a Team Mikey’s Way uniform, I hope to raise brand recognition on a national level for Mikey’s Way Foundation. By competing with the Mikey’s Way “MW” on my chest I hope to gain exposure at meets and increase media coverage, spread Mikey’s story, and make Mikey’s Way Foundation a nationally recognized organization. My goal is to raise $10,000 worth of donations by Olympic Trials. Currently I have raised about $2,000 since September. People’s support has been truly overwhelming! Half of every generous donation goes directly to Mikey’s Way Foundation as they continue to provide pediatric cancer patients with electronics to help them cope with the stress, fear and boredom of treatments. The other half goes towards Team Mikey’s Way, uniforms, travel and training expenses for me. Ultimately, the coverage and exposure gained by traveling and competing in Team Mikey’s Way apparel will result in greater recognition for the Foundation and will aid pediatric cancer patients as well.
So far this season I have already competed for TEAM MIKEY’S WAY at the Windy City Invitational and the West Point Open. I travel to Vegas tomorrow and compete in the Winter Cup Challenge, and I am looking into the HGC meet at the beginning of March. From there, I will compete at Qualifier, and hopefully US Championships. Should my Irish citizenship go through, I hope to get several international assignments, possibly Northern European Championships.
I cannot tell you how much I appreciate you helping me get the word out. I don’t think people realize how much their support means. Whether it is cheering for me at a competition, wearing Mikey’s Way Blue, or even just sending in a dollar. Everything helps.
Ian
Here is a Video Eddie put together to tell MIKEY’S story and Ian’s quest. Keep the MOMENTUM going. Share it with everyone.
Find out about MIKEY’s WAY on NBC News
Sadly, Michael lost his battle with cancer in October of 2008. He is deeply missed and always loved. His vision for Mikey’s Way continues, and his legacy has only just begun.
ALWAYS BE UPLIFTING. Please share this with Everyone you know. Support Team Mikey’s Way: SUPPORT