Michael was nominated by a patient he helped following an urgent abdominal surgery. After the surgery, Michael took time to sit with the patient at a time when she was feeling very ill and distraught. He evaluated her conditions and explained what was being done for her. She said the compassion, caring and respect he showed helped her through a difficult night and on her way to healing. Michael "truly is a grand clinician and he is very positive, knowledgeable and a role model," she wrote.