Michael Ray Brooks

Michael is the son of Ray and Rhonda Mahaley and the brother of Jordan and Jason Mahaley. He was welcomed into our family at the age of six after finding him through a want ad. The saying that when one door closes another one opens explains our beginning with Michael. We were dealing with the impending death of our first child, Joshua, and then came the ad in the Sunday paper. Not yet realizing that another door was opening in our lives, we took the first step. When we were first introduced to Michael, he was this adorable six-year-old child in his own little world with his own language. He adapted very quickly into our family unit but was still very much in his little world. One endearing thing that Michael would do was go and stand by Joshua’s hospital bed and “read” stories to him – complete with hand gestures and theatrical pauses, as if he were an animated preacher addressing a congregation. It didn’t take long for Ray to notice that Michael had great potential to learn and grow. Thus began our journey in finding and discovering his many talents and struggles. Our life with Mikey hasn’t always been easy. There were times that it was trying and frustrating, but of equal measure there was joy and awe that this child whom no one wanted was so remarkable. For someone with all of his limitations, he was happy. He taught us true love. How to have joy in something so simple as blowing bubbles or singing silly songs. He taught us that when we had bad days, those days could be worse. Don’t take for granted your blessings. Don’t forget to enjoy the sun. Watch a children’s movie on occasion. You won’t be sorry. We were blessed to have Michael as our son. Michael wasn’t blessed because of us – we were the ones blessed. We thank you for sharing Michael’s life with us. As you leave here, take time to blow a bubble for Michael. I know he will be watching and enjoying the memories.