High Springs, Fla. Mike Ortiz in his home. (Photo by DeeDee Brustad)
When High Springs, Fla resident Mike Ortiz came from Puerto Rico to America at 8 years old he was not very happy about it. He is now 73 and struggling with Alzheimer’s disease but he has found happiness with his wife of 30 years.
Mike Ortiz and wife, JoAnne Ortiz share nine children and more than 30 grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He sits surrounded by his children and grandchildren. Occasionally he becomes confused and asks the names of the people in his living room. He is not always sure when he met the people near him. Most of the time, his bright eyes sparkle with glee and a hint of mischief. He greets each question with a warm and open smile. He is a man who knows the importance of love.
“It is good to see him doing so well,” said his granddaughter Daisy Brustad, age 13. “It makes me sad when he asks my name.”
Talking with loved ones and sharing stories helps him remember. It clears his mind so everyday tasks become easy again. He compares these visits with a shot in the arm that makes things better. He tells his grandchildren the secret to happiness is doing what is good for your family.
“You don’t have to go to church everyday to know God,” says Ortiz. “You can know God because you help somebody on the street, saved his life. That’s big time!”
Mike Ortiz stresses the importance of being kind to each other. He tells his family that sharing your knowledge and your time helps the world be a better place. There is not time for everything the world offers.
“All the good things that the world gives you, lends to you, you have to choose,” says Ortiz.
His final advice to his family is simple and emphatic.
“Love each other no matter what. The world leads you into things and it leads you away from family. No matter what,” Mike tells his grandchildren, “family first.”
