Michael was a kind, compassionate, and loving 12-year-old with energy unmatched by even that of the Energizer Bunny. His sense of humor was epic and he was so silly. He enjoyed going to the beach, reading Harry Potter and The Hunger Games, and playing sports, especially basketball and baseball. He was a master of Minecraft and he staged legendary Nerf gun battles with his family and friends. He loved making others happy and seeing their smiles.

In October 2012, Michael was diagnosed with DIPG, a fast-growing and highly aggressive form of brain cancer following balance issues, trouble walking, and left arm numbness. He declined rapidly after diagnosis and passed away one week later on October 29, 2012, the day he was scheduled to begin a treatment protocol.

Michael’s mom, Betsy, and sister, Patti, honor his legacy everyday through their work raising money for pediatric brain cancer research.

"Funding research is crucial in finding the key to unlock DIPG. No other family should have to endure the pain of this monster."
- Besty Caltabiano

Thank you for choosing to donate to The Cure Starts Now Foundation. 100% of this donation, after credit card processing fees, goes directly towards research to find the homerun cure for cancer starting with pediatric brain cancer research.

If you would like to make a donation by mail please send a check to:  The Cure Starts Now Foundation; 10280 Chester Road; Cincinnati, OH 45215 and put the child's name in the memo.

The family receives notification of all donations made to this tribute fund automatically.