On Dec. 10, John and Denise Hirschbeck hosted their annual Magic of Michael event for families who receive care through Akron Children’s Mahoning Valley Palliative Care Program.
In 2015, John and Denise Hirschbeck formed the Magic of Michael Foundation in honor of their son Michael, who died of a rare neurological disease called adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) in 2014. The goal of their foundation is to help families facing life’s curveballs – a nod to Michael’s love of baseball and John’s longtime Major League Baseball umpiring career. To do that, they focus on providing the resources children and families need most – from accessibility ramps to wheelchairs to service animals.
Beginning in 2016, the family started hosting a holiday event at Akron Children’s for families with children in palliative care. This year marks the event’s 9th anniversary. Since its inception, approximately 60 families have participated.
On Dec. 10, the Hirschbecks hosted families who receive care through Akron Children’s Mahoning Valley Palliative Care Program, which supports children with chronic or serious health conditions. In the weeks leading up to the event, Denise receives the wish lists that have been created with the patient families (including siblings). She purchases and wraps all gifts based on the family’s needs including gift cards for the parents.
Turning loss into purpose
When asked what inspired them to channel their loss into the Magic of Michael Foundation, Denise and John say Michael’s spirit continues to guide their work. “Michael was a very outgoing young man who loved life and baseball,” said John. “He would be extremely proud to know that we are keeping his memory alive, along with his brother John who passed away at the age of 8.
“It gives our family great pleasure knowing Michael’s legacy is helping other young people and families,” he added.
Making a difference, one family at a time
The annual holiday event has become a cherished tradition for the Hirschbeck family.
Over the years, the foundation has touched many families, but Denise said one in particular stands out.
“Several years ago, we had a grandmother who was raising her 5 grandchildren. They didn’t own a washer/dryer and had to go to the laundromat to wash clothes,” said Denise. “She requested a new washer/dryer, and we were so touched by her kindness that we arranged for the appliances to be delivered and installed. She could not have been more appreciative, and it made our day to know we made a difference in their lives.”
A tradition that keeps giving
Denise enjoys shopping for the gifts for the children and their siblings, but says the greatest reward is seeing the joy and smiles from the children and their families.
The annual holiday event has become a cherished tradition for the family.
“Our goal is to help Akron Children’s in whatever way we can,” said John. “If we’re able to put smiles on faces, even for a short time, then we have accomplished our goal.”
One of Denise’s favorite parts is receiving the families’ wish lists.
“The shopping and wrapping are fun, but the greatest reward is the beautiful smiling faces,” she said. “It’s our pleasure to give to families who may be experiencing hard times. We just want them to know that someone cares.”
Giving back because others once gave to them
This year marks the event’s 9th anniversary.
The Hirschbecks approach is rooted in the support they once received.
“Family, friends and the community were always there to support us with a friendly phone call or card,” said John. “We’re fortunate to have the best children’s hospital in our community, which we didn’t have when our boys got sick.”
“The community is very fortunate to have the best care available to families with sick children,” added Denise. “The Magic of Michael Foundation will always stand behind and support Akron Children’s. Our goal will forever remain to help families ‘facing the curveballs of life.’”
