J. MICHAEL BURRILL

J. MICHAEL BURRILL 1965-2000 Leader, swordsman, comedian, RC aviator, friend and minstrel. He gave us his great knowledge, endless wisdom and quick wit. He gave us laughter and he gave us joy. These are the things we will carry with us always. An energetic child, Michael found it within himself to channel all his energy into living well with Cystic Fibrosis and gave of that boundless energy to improve all of our lives as well as those in his community. Michael was fond of saying that it was during a stay in Sick Kid's Hospital, contemplating his toes sticking out of a child sized bed, that he dedicated himself to the establishment of an Adult Cystic Fibrosis Clinic at Wellesley Hospital and worked as a patient advisor. Michael was also the editor of the national newsletter for the CF Foundation, ;Circle of Friends and served on the National Board and fought with great tenacity for the rights of adults to serve on committees and educate others on the special needs of adults. He also volunteered at the Variety Village summer camp, where he taught fencing to kids with special needs. Michael won Volunteer of the Year and the Award for Long Term Dedication. All of these efforts were meant to focus the CF community into a CIRCLE OF FRIENDS dedicated to the living of life at it's fullest. Michael was born in Shawville, Quebec to John Burrill and Carol Little, the oldest sibling of Peter and Kathryn and Dale Cotnam. They taught him that all things are possible. He was diagnosed at the age of 2 and faced the diagnosis as a challenge, living life with humour, curiosity and an unmatched joie de vivre. Not only that, he also wailed out a mean blues guitar. Michael knew what it meant to live with laughter, joy and gusto. And above all, he knew the love of a wonderful woman, Susie: his light, his love and his best friend. He died quietly and peacefully in her arms on Friday, November 17th, 2000. Michael had two terrific years after his lung transplant and would want us to dedicate our boundless energy to ensure that the program continues to learn and grow to perfection. We are all grateful to have met him and glad to have known him. We are so sorry to be parted from him. Michael's memorial service will be held this evening, Tuesday, November 21, 2000 at 6 p.m. at Variety Village. Donations may be made to the Michael Burrill Memorial Fund. Details to follow.