Mikey's Fund
Mikey's Fund is named after a very special person, Michaela Hagemann
whose parents had nicknamed “Mikey”. Mikey, born with Down’s
Syndrome, was in her early forties, far surpassing her anticipated
life expectancy. Although Mikey had developed cataracts,
doctors were reluctant to perform surgery, due to anticipated
limited benefits. However, when the Hagemann's brought Mikey
to Lansing Ophthalmology, Dr. Moore told them that having Mikey
enjoy a high quality of life far outweighed any reason not to
undergo surgery. Dr. Moore performed cataract surgery on Mikey,
and the results helped her enjoy her time through her last days.
Mikey passed away in January of 2003.
Mikey’s parents – James and Pauline – called Lansing Ophthalmology
and expressed their gratefulness for the difference that the medical
treatment had made in Mikey’s life. They desired to “give
something back” by making a financial gift to provide eye care for
those who could not otherwise afford it.
Last year alone, Mikey’s Fund provided services and eyewear to those
in need totaling in excess of $9,000.
In 2009, the Mikey’s Fund Board decided to turn the focus of the
program to serving disadvantaged school children in East Lansing and
Lansing Public Schools. The Fund has been working with Lansing
Public Schools since 2006, but now the
program is expanding. Working with the
nurses and teachers at these schools, Mikey’s Fund will provide
students in need
with eye care services and eye wear.