Michael's Story

Michael Scott Miyauchi was born August 3rd, 1983 in Seattle, to parents Richard and Kathy. He first lived in Renton, but then moved to Issaquah when he became an older brother to twin sisters, Allison and Laurie. Growing up, he participated in T-ball, basketball and many years in soccer. Though small in stature, he was able to “fool” his opponent with his quickness, speed, and his ball handling.

Throughout his educational career, Michael displayed a talent for mathematics and science. He attended Skyline High School for 2 years, before enrolling at Bellevue Community College in the Running Start program. Michael graduated in 2002 with a 3.9 GPA and attended the University of Washington, as a part of the honors program. He loved living the dorm life, especially since he was able to room with Ryan, his best friend since Kindergarten.

Michael had plenty of hobbies throughout his lifetime, such as computers, traveling, and books. One of his favorite trips was going to Japan with his father in 2002. This trip dovetailed perfectly with his love of the culture of Japan, and his free-time passion of Animae and Manga. Michael had an avid interest in books of all sorts. He frequented the libraries and bookstores, accumulating dozens of books in his personal library. Michael could always be seen with his nose in his book, immersed in the latest sci-fi novel.

On March 31st, 2003, Michael was diagnosed with an aggressive form of non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. He underwent numerous rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, under the supervision of Dr. Henry Kaplan at the Swedish Hospital in Seattle. Despite the circumstances, Michael remained optimistic and hopeful. Throughout his life and especially during his illness, Michael shared his faith, hope, and love for all in his smile, his thoughtful sharing, and in his generous heart.

One of the most important aspects of his life was his faith in Jesus. Michael was involved in a church plant on the Eastside, which eventually became Lighthouse Christian Church in Issaquah. He was one of the founding members of SYTE (Serving Youth on the Eastside), the youth group of Lighthouse Christian Church. Michael’s Christian faith was the most influential aspect of his life, and is what guided him throughout his life and his illness. Right after he was diagnosed with cancer, he was not discouraged. He said that, “If God chooses to heal me, then I get to stay here with my family. If God chooses not to heal me, then I will get to go to heaven. It’s a win-win situation.” Michael’s faith defined his life and was his source of strength. He touched the lives of so many and continues to grow in the lives of all who knew him. He showed us faith in action, hope through living, and love through sharing.

Michael passed away on May 5th, 2004 at the Swedish Hospital at the age of 20 years old. Close family and friends surrounded Michael as he went home to Heaven. His burial place is at Sunset Memorial Park in Bellevue, Washington.

Although his physical body has passed, he left behind a tremendous legacy. The Michael Miyauchi Foundation was established to preserve his generosity and humanitarianism.

This quote is posted on his door, and serves as a motto for his life:

“The human spirit is stronger than anything that happens to it” –C.C. Scott