Mike
If Mike were here today I would hug him and tell him to be more vulnerable. We all have limitations. Mike worked for me and was a great leader. He was smart and organized and efficient. He unfortunately had type one diabetes and did not take it serious enough. He worked out a lot and ate well. The tragedy came after working outside for three days straight in 90 degrees heat. He must have let himself get dehydrated. Which is just not surmountable by someone with this disease.
Mike had a beautiful young daughter he left behind. He thought he had the flu and went to bed. Two days later, he refused several attempts by his brother and friend to take him to the hospital. He fell asleep and never woke up.
Mike was very young, the tragedy is one that lives with me to this day. I was both his boss and friend. I struggle with the thought. I wish Mike or any of his friends or family had told me about his health issues. Then, I could have done more. I wish I could have made sure he was safe. Why do people have to be so proud. I would not have allowed him to work so long and hard. His determination and stubbornness put him in harms way. Those who knew of his condition tried to make him take a break and go home. But he refused.
If you take anything from this post, always prioritize your health and safety. Especially if you have little ones at home that count on you to be their shining light. People can only do so much to help you. If you are not honest about your needs, it can lead to a tragic end. Living in denial of your situation can also have the same outcome.
Fabulous, Fun, and Frustrating, People 
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