Michael's Journey

In Honour of Michael Andrews

Born December 16, 2016 — on his grandpa’s birthday — Michael arrived earlier than expected, weighing just 5 pounds. During pregnancy, no concerns were detected. We had no idea his tiny heart carried a serious condition.

Shortly after birth, he was admitted to the NICU for low blood sugar. It was there — in a moment we never saw coming — doctors discovered a significant heart irregularity.

That was the beginning of our journey with congenital heart disease.

Michael was diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), a rare and complex heart condition. At just three months old, he underwent his first open-heart surgery. Recovery brought challenges — a feeding tube, daily anticoagulant injections, and many emotional highs and lows. Even then, his strong spirit shone through. In true Michael fashion, he pulled out his feeding tube himself — and soon after, we were cleared to bring him home.

Life settled into a “new normal.”

For several years, his cardiology checkups remained stable — until last year, when his team noticed concerning changes in his heart’s growth. We received the call on a Thursday. One week later, he was back in surgery.

In May 2025, at just eight years old, Michael underwent his second open-heart surgery. While we always knew more surgeries were part of his journey, we hoped they would come much later.

It has now been almost a year since that surgery — and his doctors have given him the all clear. They are incredibly happy with his healing and the strength of his heart. Slowing down, however, was never part of his plan.

His little brother always looks out for him — reminding us to put vitamin E oil on his scar before bed and making sure he’s okay. They are each other’s best friend. The love and bond they share is truly beautiful.

He walked out of the hospital after just three days. Within a week, he wanted to be outside rollerblading and scooting with his brother. He proudly squeezed in the final baseball tournament of the season and spent the summer swimming, biking, and simply being a kid.

That fall, he started his first year of hockey. He could barely skate at first and spent more time falling than standing — but he never quit. He kept getting back up. This past season has been all hockey, hockey, hockey, and he proudly plays for the Indus Canes.

Michael is intelligent, creative, and kind. He’s thriving in school, loves to draw, and leads with heart in everything he does.

Mikey is more than a heart warrior — he is an inspiration to all of us.

He is our son, grandson, nephew, teammate, and friend. He is the reason behind every swing, every sponsorship, and every act of generosity connected to this tournament.

 

At Panel Construction Ltd., we are proud to host our Second Annual Fore the Love of Little Hearts Golf Tournament in support of Heart Beats — an organization that stood beside our family when we needed guidance, understanding, and hope.

This tournament is about more than golf.

It’s about community.

It’s about resilience.

It’s about making sure no family walks this journey alone.

From the bottom of our hearts — thank you for standing with us.