The foundation was started in honor of Michael Kennel. Michael was mentally handicapped and passed away suddenly on March 26, 2006. Although life was most challenging for him Michael was most concerned about other people--their needs, their happiness, their joy. Michael's quiet steps on earth echoed loudly in the hearts of all who had the opportunity and privelege to know or to meet him. Michael is with our Lord! He is healed, happy and well! Michael prayed to God often yet never complained about his struggles on this earth. Michael's Forgotten Angels - what a loving testimony to everyone who finds life challenging, and for people who lack understanding and compassion regarding mental disabilities and illnesses. May God bless all of his children, especially Michael's Forgotten Angels!
Michael was blessed to have a long term relationship with Tammy Denning. She was very devoted to Michael and talked or wrote to him every day. She was one of the most important people to him. They were together approximately 13 years. Their dream was to marry! Mike is definitely smiling down at her today helping her to continue forward without him. Michael's other true friendship was with his borther Alex. Alex also is developmentally delayed. He faces many challenges in life with the same courage and determination that Michael did. He is saddened at the loss of his brother, however he is still here to help us to change views, perceptions and labels of developmentally challenged individuals.
