Michael's Journey

You may contact us at MichaelsJourney@yahoo.com with any questions, comments, etc.

Comments:

Beverly Rathbun: 

Dear Laura and Judy,  

Usually I avoid books like this as I find them hard to read.  People will say they never see me cry, and I don’t, outwardly. 

Actually, the book left me feeling uplifted and smiling.  I found myself hoping and waiting, from one page to the other, that progress was being made...and, in every turning page, sure enough it was.  I feel that the writing done “in first person” on your part, Laura, made it so much more a personal account.  I felt as though I was walking along side of you or sitting with you, perhaps, in that hospital cafeteria you so often ate at.  I felt you were sharing your most intimate feelings with me.  I loved that!  Your every concern that you indicated during the times you were processing your thoughts, were so much like any mother would feel if she were in your circumstances.  I grieved for you, and actually wanted to reach out and hold your hand (as to comfort you).

It made me so proud to know, “Aunty” Judy, and to see what comfort she and Noel were to you, Michael, and your family.  It’s been years since I saw Judy; however, it is beautiful to see what a caring and loving person she has grown into.  I’ve been reconnecting with classmates from high school on Facebook, and the amazing stories we share have proven to show how resilient we women are and how we endure so much in our lives, but somehow we come out the better, and, always find the time and energy to support one another.

As for Michael, your book truly expresses “the true essence” of a son, a teenage son, who has so much to experience in life and, who has taken on such adversity in his life: life-threatening—and has given everything he has to become the wonderful, joyful, loving son that he is today.  I am so impressed.  After reading your book I feel like I’ve known Michael all my life.  What truly amazes me is that everyone in the book consistently stated that “Michael never complained.”  What a tribute to him.  The other word that sticks in my mind is the one you used over and over again, Laura—it’s the word “fun.”  That whatever Michael did it was fun!  I love that.  So simply stated.

Last, but not least, I feel bonded with Michael being Raider Fans.  Needless to say, we are not too far from the stadium, so we have had season tickets for a number of years.  My son, Richie, 29 years old, is a true Fan, as are all of us.  I really enjoy putting comments on Mike’s Facebook page whenever he says something about the Raiders.

I have no doubt that we will have the chance to meet.  I do get to the East Coast periodically, especially to

, so I am sure it will happen.  Let’s keep in touch.

Love, from one mother to another.....

Bev

Denise Potvin:  Through my son, Nathan, I have come to know Mike over the past year or so.  It never ceases to amaze me how little time it has taken for him to have worked his way into my heart. 

I was one of the people in the crowd cheering Mike along at graduation (making a fool of myself, I might add!), tears of happiness streaming down my face for him and his family.  I wish you all the best!

Frank Ballirano: We have watched Michael grow from a little boy to a man.  Along this Journey he has hit many bumps in the road.  One of these bumps was a mountain.  Mike challenged that mountain and climbed it like a champ. 
The Hartleys are a wonderful family that we love dearly.  Their strength and unity has helped Mike immensely along this journey.  We are so proud of Mike and so happy to be part of his life.
The Ballirano's

Justine Correia:  I know how very hard you both worked on this book.  The love of family and friends is so evident in this act of love.  Michael has been blessed by you and in return is bestowing blessings onto many others.  I can't wait to get a copy.  Maybe I can even get an autographed copy!??

Colleen Coffey: Congratulations  I can not wait to read the book. Laura, you and your family are an inspiration to us all. I will see you soon.

Karleen Tedesco: I remember seeing Mike in a wheel chair I would always ask my son's how he was doing. Then we sat with Mike at the town football dinner at Wrights Farm last year. When I seen how good he was doing with his walker I wanted to cry for joy. He was telling us how he was going to RIC after graduation and I was so happy for him. He is a wonderful man and inspiration to our family not to give up on anything God bless all of you.
  Karleen Tedesco

Beverly Rathbun: With a Facebook tie to Judy Tessier (AHS Class of '67)and my family being a ticket holder of the Oakland Raiders...what an amazing connection to a heart-warming story of Michael's Journey and to you, Laura, who I've just met. It is obvious that you have followed the motto of the Raider's team:  \"Commitment to Excellence.\"  I look forward to what unfolds in all of your lives.

Nancy Lynne Sullivan: Hi Laura, My mom told me about your book coming out soon. Congratulations on such a huge undertaking! Please keep us posted on when and where we can purchase Michael's Journey!  

Love Lynne

Loretta Sousa: : Michael has been an inspiration in my life.He has shown me how delicate life can be. I wish that more people could learn what I have learned from Michael.

Ann Harbison: Dear Hartley Family:
   What a great website.  I can't wait to read the book.  You should all be proud of yourselves, especially Michael for all your strength and determination.  You never give up and that is wonderful.  Congratulations on your graduation and best of luck in College.  May all your dreams come true.  I miss you all.

Ann Harbison
PA

Carol LaBianca:  Hi Laura, So happy to hear that Michael is doing so well. Think of you and your family often. God Bless you all. Love Carol

Lisa Russo:It has been a \"journey\" for all of you, but your love for eachother, faith, and prayers pulled you through it all. I'm so very blessed to have all of you in my life. I love all of you so very much. God Bless.

Judy Tessier: I wish you the good things you deserve. You are an inspiration and I love you all! Thanks!

Eric Hartley: Hey mom and auntie i am really proud of you for doing this!!!!!!

Dennis Labossiere:I love this family and due to this truly moving story my life has changed and i have grown closer with the Hartley's. They have been nothing but saints to me and i don't know how to thank them. But i can say that i do love them dearly and hold them close to my heart.!

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