Meet Michael
Michael’s story is one of love, loss, and resilience. Born with a disability, he shared an unbreakable bond with his devoted mother, who raised him in Rock Hill. When his mother was diagnosed with cancer, Michael returned home to care for her until her final moments.
Heartbroken and struggling to navigate life without her, Michael found himself homeless. Turning to Pathways Community Center, he was met with compassion and support. With their guidance, Michael moved from Bethel Shelters to the Haven Men’s Shelter and began rebuilding his life. Motivated by his mother’s memory, he’s taking steps toward independence, securing a job, essential documents, and even a new pair of glasses. Michael’s promise to make his mom proud is coming to life.
I was told the dreaded words no one ever wants to hear, “my mom has cancer.
Michael was born with a disability. He grew up in Rock Hill, where his loving mother cared for him. Their bond was strong, as they only had each other. As Michael grew up, he became an independent young man and moved to Georgia to work. One day, he gets a distraught call from his mother, asking him to come home. Unsure of what was happening, Michael immediately came home, where he was told the dreaded words no one ever wants to hear, “your mom has cancer.” Michael cared for her until her last breath.
Michael was heartbroken. Now unable to care for himself, he became unstable and homeless. Michael journeyed to Pathways Community Center. The staff greeted him with welcoming arms and guided him through available services. He was immediately placed into Bethel Shelters that night. After seven months, Bethel’s Case Manager worked hard to get Michael to graduate to a bed at the Haven Men’s Shelter. He is constantly affirmed by the memories of his mother and to be the best that he can be. He promised his mom he would make her proud, and he is! Michael will soon be placed into a job with the help of Vocational Rehabilitation, receive a driver’s license and social security card through Alston Wilkes Society, and even get a new pair of glasses!