Our Why

The Michael W. Solberg Foundation was established to remember and carry on the legacy of Mike “Bergie” Solberg. Mike was one of a kind who  always went above and beyond to help others. So in Bergie's Way we have a mission to help others in need. Mike was a Husband, Daddy, Son, Brother, Friend, Firefighter & Paramedic and so much more. Through this foundation we want to be able to continue his acts of kindness by helping others. 

As his wife, I experienced firsthand the power of smalls acts of kindness and support during a difficult time and it meant more to our family than you can ever imagine.  So now we want to pay it forward and help others in need.     

    In October of 2012 Mike was diagnosed with Glioblastoma MultiForme (GBM), just three weeks after being sworn into the Schaumburg Fire Department. After going through brain surgery, radiation and chemo, Mike returned to work in May of 2013. He was able to work and help others while being a firefighter/paramedic. Over the next 2 years, Mike met so many people and was able to help save lives. He even experienced fighting some fires (one of his dreams). For those who never had the opportunity to meet Mike you can get a sense that even though he was dealing with his own health crisis, he put others first and lived his life helping where he could. He lived life as normally as possible. In between quarterly MRI’s and enjoyed life with his family, especially his daughter Emma who was his world. Mike was the type of person who experienced so much joy and happiness doing for others. Anyone who met Mike, instantly realized he was someone they wanted to know.  Mike often used the phrase “Not Today” when battling brain cancer. He was strong minded and believed in "Mind over Matter".  I truly believe his mindset kept him fighting for as long as he did.  Especially after having a second surgery, that resulted in him having a stroke and becoming paralyzed on his left side.  That didn't stop Mike.  His strength and determination motivated him to learn how to walk again.  Even through months of rehab and continuous cancer treatment he always thought about others and wanted to help.  He fought courageously for almost 4 years and never gave up. Mike passed away on May 6, 2016 and will never be forgotten.