By Maria V. Gallagher, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation
Every so often, the good guys win.
I was reminded of that sacred truth when contemplating this year’s Pennsylvania Pro-Life Lifetime Achievement Award winner, Michael Ciccocioppo.
For 21 years, Michael served at the helm of the Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation, the state affiliate of National Right to Life. He gained a well-deserved reputation for outstanding oratory and grassroots chapter development.
He has also been a mentor to many, inspiring a number of young people to attend the National Right to Life Academy and to become leaders in the pro-life movement.
With his ready smile and wit, Michael managed to disarm the most determined pro-abortion activists. He built a number of bridges, and for that we are exceedingly grateful.
It could be said that Michael was pro-life from the very beginning. He often told the story of how his parents eloped when they were they were teenagers, and he was born six months later. The family would expand to include an amazing 14 brothers and sisters.
Michael would grow up to serve in the U.S. Air Force, then went on in civilian life to lead an impressive career as a hospital administrator.
He then received what he believes was a divinely-inspired call to serve in the pro-life movement.
It was an honor to work under Michael’s sunny leadership for so many years. Many of the lessons he taught me remain with me to this day.
If you would like to see Michael receive his justly-earned award, please join us at the Celebrate Life Banquet at the Hershey Lodge October 12th. You can register online at www.paprolife.org . If you live in Pennsylvania, you won’t want to miss this inspiring event!