In Memoriam: Michael John Ryan

We are saddened to learn of the recent passing of one of Konbit Sante’s earliest and longest champions, Michael John Ryan. Michael was recruited to serve on Konbit Sante’s board of directors by Konbit Sante co-founder Dr. Michael Taylor, and was a member of the inaugural team that visited Haiti on a fact-finding tour in 2001. As a founding board member, he was instrumental in defining Konbit Sante’s mission to build a sustainable health system in Cap-Haitien, procuring equipment and supplies for our healthcare partners, and building the foundation upon which our organization still stands.

“Mike generously shared his time, resources, and expertise as a founding board member to help get Konbit Sante off the ground. He always quietly rolled up his sleeves to help with whatever was needed,” said Nate Nickerson, former executive director of Konbit Sante. “I remember him coming to Haiti with his daughter on our very first trip as we were exploring a possible relationship with the Justinian Hospital in 2001. He also did a lot of work to help our organization put together good accounting systems and the tools needed to have a well-run and effective organization. He was also helpful in securing equipment and supplies for Haiti through his role as chief financial officer at Maine Medical Center.

“The generous support of Mike and his wife, Mary Lou McGregor, continued long after he left the board.  We appreciate and celebrate that Konbit Sante’s continued work in Haiti today is one part of the legacy of his life.”

All of us in the Konbit Sante family would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Michael’s family. His obituary in the Portland Press Herald can be read here.