Michael Hymanson

Mike always puts others first, inspiring people with his infectious enthusiasm and bringing out the best in them. Mike is a 'hands on' Chairman of two children's charities: Destination Florida and Children's Aid. He has been involved in raising over £5million for local needy and poorly children. Children's Aid, founded by Mike 24 years ago, has been supporting local causes which benefit disadvantaged children. The charity recently funded a sensory room at a care home. Destination Florida is a separate but linked charity that organises trips to Florida every 2 years for 75 seriously ill children. Mike is responsible for the meticulous organisation of the holidays, and accompanies the children on every trip. The children are cared for around the clock by a volunteer medical team and many other caring professionals. These holidays really are the trip of a lifetime for some of the very brave, terminally ill children. Mike is totally dedicated to helping bring sunshine and happiness into the lives of children. He is a very dynamic, caring and approachable person who understands the needs of others and how to make dreams realities. I believe Mike truly deserves to hold aloft the Olympic torch for Manchester.