Being active and positive has always been Michael’s approach to life, and having a life-limiting illness hasn’t changed that.
Despite a long list of serious health issues, Michael remains positive. Even the day he got home after brain surgery he headed off to the football club with 19 staples in his head.
“It’s just me,” says Michael. “I just go with it. You can’t do anything about it. I’m not much good at sitting around doing nothing.”
Michael has been involved in football for most of his life as a player, coach and supporter. Even on his wedding day in 1967 he played football in the morning and got married in the afternoon!
Michael played for New Zealand in 1969 “about the time they landed on the moon”, and went on a world tour with the team to Israel, New Caledonia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok and Tehran. The team were hoping to qualify for the 1970 Football World Cup but it wasn’t to be.
As a club player, Michael started at Seatoun, then moved to Stop Out in the Hutt Valley.
“I went to Stop Out for money because we were building a house. In those days, it was only 500 bucks but that was a lot of money and it saved me getting a second mortgage.
“I stayed at Stop Out and played 89 games in the National League for them. Then I ended up coaching them.” Then it was back to Seatoun as player coach.
At the same time Michael owned two butcher shops, in Molesworth Street and Tinakori Road, and raised three children. He now has four grandchildren.
As with many Wellingtonians, Michael has had experience with Mary Potter Hospice with friends and family members. Daughter Selena said the family had always had a connection. Her father-in-law spent time at the Hospice, and her mum.
“I just think it’s a nice place,” says Selina. “The nurse has already checked up today to make sure Dad has changed his meds. She was checking that we were on the same page with the medication.”
As well as regular contact with the Hospice community nurse and doctor, Michael attends the Mary Potter Hospice day programme.
“They have a few quizzes on a Thursday morning. And cup of tea and a sandwich or something.”
Michael enjoys meeting other people “in the same boat” at the day programme. “There are these volunteers running around after you. The doctor is very good and the nurse and the OT (occupational therapist). It’s great. The Hospice definitely deserves your support.”