Students at BOCES 2 raise
$2,000 to benefit a fellow student

When students and staff at WE-MO-CO Career and Technical Education Center learned that Mike Zobel, a student in Cal Wicken's Bakery class, needed a liver transplant, they immediately wanted to help. At the end of the school year, students and staff deemed one week "Mike Zobel Week," and held various fundraisers in his honor. They raised $2,000 for their friend in need.

Mike, who is from Gates Chili High School, was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis at just six months old. In May, he was hospitalized while he awaited a liver transplant scheduled for June. Mike's much needed liver transplant came from someone very close to him, his father, Ken, who was able to donate a portion of his liver to help his son. According to Mike's father, Mike is improving every day. "He has been coming home from the hospital for day visits for the past two weeks and is expected to return home for good on August 6."

Mike's family is very grateful for the outpouring of support. The money that the students and staff raised was used to help with the family's expenses during their difficult time. Mike's father is still on leave from work through September while he recovers from his own surgery. He receives monthly check-ups and has some recurring problems but is expecting a full recovery in time.

Fundraising events included baked goods made and sold by students in Mike's Bakery class; a benefit lunch/snacks held by the Culinary Arts class; a benefit car wash organized by the Auto Body class; "Make Mike Smile" buttons made and sold by students in the Work Activities Center, as well as other fundraisers held throughout the WE-MO-CO building. "We were very pleased with the efforts of all the faculty, staff and students in rallying to support Mike," said Louis Lombardo, supervisor of special programs. "This is not unlike our employees and students. They are always willing to devote time and energy to assist others, and this is just another example of their caring and consideration. We all wish Mike and his father a speedy recovery."

Note: Students who are interested in corresponding with Mike can send cards and letters to him at 98 Jackrist Circle, Rochester, NY 14606.