In Memory of Michael Stern: A Tireless Fighter For Good And Dedicated Much of His Life To Helping Others

Aside from being a Commissioner, Michael Stern was also one of the creators of Aventura Magazine and spent much of his time after his diagnosis in 2019 urging others to get a Colonoscopy. He became an Ambassador in the fight against Colorectal Cancer and also advocated for funding Cancer Research in Washington.

As part of the fight against Colorectal Cancer in 2023 and 2024, Aventura’s Colorectal Cancer Public Service Announcements won Gold Viddy Awards from the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals due in large part to Stern’s contributions.

Stern believed in an era where effective communication plays a vital role in raising awareness and driving social change, the Aventura Public Communicators Group with his contribution achieved a remarkable feat. The outstanding Short Film, "Michael Stern: Colorectal Cancer Awareness," was honored with the prestigious Gold Viddy Award from The Association Of Marketing And Communications Professionals. This recognition was a testament to the group's commitment to delivering impactful messages and their dedication to Public Health Initiatives.

He made sure people knew his story to raise awareness about the disease.

"I found out about my Cancer Diagnosis after waking up from my Colonoscopy in October 2019. At that time, it was unknown what stage I was at, just that it was most likely a Cancerous Polyp. It took about a week to find out it progressed to Stage IV."

"I turned to Google, which was a very big mistake. After reading most of the results that I had about a 14% chance of living past five years, my life stood still for that moment. All I could think of is, "Will I see my kids grow up?" and "What do I say to them?" "How can I leave my family at this time? I have so much more to do. It took me a few weeks to come to grips with things. I started to think in a different direction."

"I was very fortunate to have my wife (aka "my rock") stand by my side and listen to the waterfall of information thrown at me, as I was unable to comprehend anything. She was able to help me process things. I found the best medical team and focused on anything I can do to beat this. I surrounded myself with an incredible support system, family, and friends, who pushed me every day to keep going and stay strong. After multiple surgeries, Chemo Treatments, Temporary Ileostomy, and then a permanent one, CT Scans, MRIs, Blood Draws, and Port Flushes, I stand here today NED [No Evidence of Disease] and stronger than ever."

"Having the right mindset in a Cancer Journey is half the battle."

"Advice: The fear for me was getting that Colonoscopy. It was the total opposite of what I thought it was. It was so easy. I wish I knew this sooner, as I would have gotten my Colonoscopy a few years earlier. The Polyp could have been found early and prevented me from having Cancer. My advice is simple. GET A COLONOSCOPY! It could save your life."

"Whatever part of the Cancer Journey you are on, take this life-changing event as an opportunity to do whatever you really want to do. Focusing on being positive. Try to get rid of Stress. Remove the fear. Enjoy and appreciate all the good things." Michael Stern Stage IV Colon Cancer Patients & Survivors

Raising Awareness For Colorectal Cancer

By sharing his story via Online and the Short Film he not only educated viewers about the importance of Early Detection and Prevention but also served as a source of inspiration and hope for those facing similar challenges.

Colorectal Cancer is one of the leading causes of Cancer-Related Deaths globally. Despite its prevalence, the disease often goes undetected until it reaches advanced stages.

Colorectal Cancer Screening can save your life. While over 90% of Colon and Rectal Cancers are found in people over age 50, anyone at any age can get Colorectal Cancer. All adults should talk to their doctor about when to start Screening for Polyps and Cancer.

The general population should begin screening at age 45. Those with a Family History of Colorectal Cancer or Precancerous Colorectal Polyps may need to begin Screening before age 45, and anyone experiencing signs and symptoms of Colorectal Cancer (at any age) should have their symptoms evaluated.

Screening should follow regular intervals through age 75 (the interval depends on which Screening method is used), and people over 75 should talk to their doctor about whether Screening is necessary.

The Film serves as a reminder that Prevention and Early Intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals battling Colorectal Cancer. So take time to make that appointment, it could make a huge difference in your life.

For more information, visit: www.fightcolorectalcancer.org - And to watch the video, visit: www.youtube.com/watch?v=nGBO22Yx1G8

Sterns's funeral was held Sunday, 7/28, at the Aventura Government Center: 19200 West Country Club Drive, Aventura, Florida 33180.

Donations can be made in Memory of Michael Stern at: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/michaelstern/