Mike had a love for dancing, was a very strong swimmer, and could skate like the wind. So, when vascular issues became a challenge in his life, rather than give in, he did his very best to deal with it.
Taking inspiration from Lee Ann Womack’s song “I HOPE YOU DANCE” ... he always “gave faith” a fighting chance. He never complained, he never got mad, and never tried to get “even.” He dealt with his pain and suffering head on.
He valued the qualities of energy and enthusiasm in those around him, both of which he had in spades. And, he had the greatest respect for one of the most competent, caring, and compassionate doctors that he ever had the good fortune to meet - Dr. Thomas Lindsay.
The entire vascular team at Peter Munk Cardiac Centre is second to none. We have nothing but the greatest admiration for everyone who cared for Mike. They included both Mike and I like we were part of the health care team. While Mike may have earned the nickname “Frequent Flyer Foley”, especially in the Cath Lab Procedure Rooms where he received Angioplasts, each phase of treatment was professionally and attentively addressed. Mike never took anything for granted, and was always both appreciative and grateful for all that the team could do for him. Dr. Lindsay demonstrated time and time again what a good leader does, referring again to Lee Ann Womack’s song, “I HOPE YOU DANCE” ...... when one door closes, a “leader” will find another to open.” And, Dr. Lindsay opened a lot of doors for Mike…time and time again!!!!
Mike is dearly missed, every day, as a husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His sense of joy despite his health challenges, his dancing in the kitchen with the music up full blast when dance floor dancing was no longer possible, and his zest for life are an inspiration to all those who knew him. He never settled for the path of least resistance and he would always take the road less travelled.
Mike was an avid miniature train enthusiast which was the inspiration for this year's theme. A poem he wrote years ago entitled "The Train of Life" ironically highlights Mike's philosophy on life:
"The Train of Life"
By Michael Foley
Some folks ride THE TRAIN OF LIFE looking out the rear.
They watch the miles of life roll by, marking every year.
They sit in sad remembrance of wasted days gone by and curse their life for what it was,
hanging their head and cry!
I never concern myself with that; I take a different vent.
I look forward to what life holds, and not what has been spent.
So, strap me to the engine, as securely as you can.
I want to be out front to see what I can see.
I want to feel the winds of change blowing in my face.
I want to see what life unfolds as I move from place to place.
I want to see what’s coming up not focused on the past.
Life’s too short for yesterdays; it moves along too fast.
When the ride becomes too bumpy because you are looking back,
Go up front, and you may suddenly find - your life will jump the track!
For if you want to live your life, you better drive the train!!
