Michael Crain lived a life very few, if any, could compare or experience.
His health journey began at the age of 31, providing a backdrop that
would define his entire life. At 41, he underwent a heart transplant, a
further testament to his remarkable resilience and spirit.
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Born and raised in Compton, California, Michael learned from an early
age how to navigate through difficult situations and negotiate survival in
a chaotic environment. This challenging upbringing instilled in him a
sense of determination and strength that would serve him throughout
his life.
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His entrepreneurial spirit was ignited long before his health became a
priority. After his heart transplant, his life took a significant turn. Instead
of living in uncertainty, he learned about his heart donor — a 23-year-old
married man with a 2-year-old son who was a student at Arizona State
University.
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Inspired by this information, Michael decided to pursue the field his
donor had chosen, Managing Information Systems (MIS). Not only did he
obtain a BA in MIS, but he also earned his Master's in MISM from the
same university his donor had attended. In a touching gesture, he gave
the young son his degrees and awards, ensuring that the child knew his
father's goals had been achieved. This marked the beginning of the pay-
it-forward life that Michael led.
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Upon moving to Midland, Texas, in 2009 with his wife Sandra, he
volunteered at the University of Texas Permian Basin, teaching the class
his donor would have attended. While he had been an engineer with no
prior interest in MIS, the transplant had a profound effect on his career
path. He served in a volunteer role for four and a half years at the
university until he was convinced to join as a paid instructor. The
following year, he received the Outstanding Teaching Award from the
University.
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Michael was acutely aware of the precious gift of life he had been given.
With unwavering determination, he strove to make God proud and honor