It is an honor for me to nominate my husband, Michael Ward, to receive the Keeping the Faith Award. There is no doubt in my mind that he deserves it.

Mike was diagnosed with glioblastoma in December 2024. Since then, he has undergone three surgeries, been through chemotherapy and radiation, and is participating in an immunotherapy clinical trial. To say he has been an inspiration these last 15 months would be an understatement.

While not a surprise to those who know Mike personally, he hasn’t skipped a beat. With the unyielding support of family, friends and colleagues, he is tackling this fight the same way he has always approached his life, with immense strength, courage and perseverance. He still walks with his running group every chance he gets; he continues to work in both a clinical and research capacity; he never opts out of a Saturday lunch with our kids, and he takes every opportunity to celebrate the good in life there is. If his determination is any indication of what it means to Keep the Faith through something like glioblastoma, this is it. Mike remains committed to living life to the fullest. And our daughter Claire, son Evan, and I are incredibly proud of him.