Jack Passwaters was the recipient of the 2026 Esther M. Land Founder’s Award, given annually to someone who has provided extraordinary service to the Michigan MG community
Dr. John R. Visser received a special award for 50 years of service to MG-MI.
Dr. Evelyn P. Navarro received a special award for 50 years of service to MG-MI.
Receiving special awards for 50 years of service to MG-MI and those who attended the first annual meeting in 1977 were Sue E. Higgs, Elida Williams, and Cathy Wassenar.
Dr. Sachdev is the Director of Neurology & Ophthalmology, Michigan State University. He is also a member of the MG-MI Board of Directors and Medical Advisory Board. Dr. Sachdev told attendees about initiating medical student research projects into various aspects of MG treatment and care.
Susan Woolner, Trinity Health Systems and MG-MI president, announced the launching of an innovative pilot program being developed by MG-MI. Called “Fueling the Care for Myasthenia Gravis in Michigan,” the three-year program will address patient care, clinical integration, and access to treatment.
MG-MI board member Lisa Gigliotti opened the program with a heartfelt prayer and a few observations about how the organization helped her come to terms with her illness.
Rae Green served as MG-MI’s executive director in the early 1990s. As a friend of the foundation, Rae shepherded in a new era of growth and professionalism which served as the foundation for future success.
Along with celebrating MG-MI’s 50 years of service, founder Esther Land was honored by friends, patients, physicians and others for her work in creating and growing the foundation. Nationally recognized in the neuromuscular disease community, Esther is still active in MG-MI’s operation.
Keshia Dickason and Wardell Frazier Jr. welcomed attendees and introduced the silent auction which raised more than $500 for MG-MI.
MG-MI’s “back of the room” staffers were on hand during the event to make sure that it was successful. Pictured are Administrative Assistant Dana Green, Co-Director Wardell Frazier Jr., Communications Manager John Bosserman, and Co-Director Keshia Dickason.
Thank you so much, Shelley Irwin, from WGVU Public Broadcasting’s Shelley Irwin Show. Not only did Shelley do an exccellent job as MC, she’s been a big supporter of MG-MI for many years.
Gilson Graphics created a fabulous commemorative brochure and other design elements to make sure MG-MI looked great at the celebration.
Thank you to Distinctive Catering who provided a spectacular spread and the Grand Rapids Art Museum for the excellent venue “under the stars.”
Our deepest gratitude goes out to the many hundreds or people who have contributed to the success of MG-MI over the past 50 years. Our accomplishments have only been possible with the dedication of physicians, volunteers, board members, donors, sponsors, staffers and many MG patients working together in community. Thank you for all you do!
