Fundraiser Event to
Support the Knoll Family

Date: Sunday, March 1st
Time: 12 PM – 5 PM
Location: Mike & Denise’s Pizzeria, Yorkville
Highlights: Live music (Tim Gleason Eli & Abner), pizza donation, silent & live auctions
Tickets: $30/adult | $20/child | $100/family

All proceeds from ticket sales go directly to the Knoll family — the band is simply helping process payments for the fundraiser.

Tickets can also be purchased directly at Mike & Denise’s Bar and Restaurant in Yorkville CASH ONLY.

Mike’s Story — Fight Like Mike
In August, Mike began experiencing severe back pain. After weeks of searching for answers, imaging revealed a compression fracture in his spine. Further scans in October raised concerns for cancer, and in November, additional testing brought devastating news: Stage IV lung cancer.

Since then, doctors have discovered that the cancer has spread to his lymph nodes, hip, brain, and spine. Mike underwent surgery on his spine to relieve pain and pressure caused by the fracture and began chemotherapy in November. Through it all, he has shown extraordinary strength and resilience. His pain is improving, and he continues to grow stronger each day — but this is only the beginning of a long and difficult fight. Mike will need ongoing treatments, care, and support as he battles this disease.

Cancer picked the wrong guy.

Mike is a fighter — but more than that, he is a devoted husband and a proud father of three. His wife and children are his greatest motivation, and every day he fights not just for himself, but for them. He is the kind of dad who shows up, teaches by example, and leads with love, patience, and strength. Watching him continue to put his family first through unimaginable circumstances is nothing short of inspiring.

Both Mike and Colleen have dedicated their lives to shaping the future of children through education. Mike is a teacher in the Indian Prairie School District, and Colleen is an educator in the Oswego School District. Their commitment to students, families, and their community reflects the kind of people they are — always giving, always supporting others, and always showing up when it matters most.

Now it’s our turn to show up for them.
Cancer picked the wrong guy — let’s fight back.
Let’s fight with Mike. Let’s Fight Like Mike.

Additional Ways to Support

For those who prefer not to donate through GoFundMe, contributions can also be made via Zelle or Venmo.

All donations go directly to support Mike and his family as they navigate ongoing medical treatments and related expenses. Whether you donate, share, or keep the family in your thoughts, every form of support is deeply appreciated.