On July 7, 2005 our hearts grew beyond measure. Michael Christian Shaffer entered our world and we would forever be changed. Michael was our rainbow after the storms - Mike and Heather were both widowed at young ages. They became a new family, with Tyler excited to be a big brother.
Michael was always on the go, never sitting or stopping for very long. He made everyone smile and loved hugs and laughs. He loved general tso's and double stuffed Oreos. He loved his bike and spent countless hours riding at The Wheel Mill in Pittsburgh. Michael loved animals and reading. He loved to explore abandoned buildings. He could memorize a million facts about useless things and tell you all of them in a few minutes. He was interested in building computers and loved to learn. Michael loved Hamilton and knew everything about the musical, the story behind it, and the creator, Lin Manuel Miranda.
Michael loved music. He started drum lessons at Maestro Minds School of Music at age 8. A few years later he began playing the piano and fell in love with it. He was inspired by his teachers at Maestro Minds. They were welcoming, patient, loving, and caring. They made Michael feel special and loved.
14 years was not enough time with Michael, but he will forever be in our hearts and minds. In honor of Michael's memory - be kind, be a friend, be aware, and make a difference.
Please scroll through to see pictures of Michael through his 14 years here with us.