Michael_Jackson

Albelo 1 Maryanne Albelo Kristen Westrick ENG 1101 November 7, 2010 "Michael Jackson, Modern Hero" Michael Jackson, time and time again, has proven to be a true modern hero. Through the many trials and tribulations that he has endured, he always managed to put others that were most in need first. On January 27, 1984, he received second degree burns on his scalp from pyrotechnic accident that occurred on the set of a Pepsi commercial. Instead of thinking of himself, he took the out-of-court settlement of $1.5 million dollars and donated it to the Brotman Medical Center in Culver City, CA., which later named the burn ward "Michael Jackson Burn Center", and presented him a plaque for his selfless efforts. He is recognized all around the world, from civilians to politicians. President Ronald Regan is one of the five presidents that acknowledge his genuine generosity. February 1, 1984, President Regan expressed his heartfelt condolences and his admiration for Michael all in one letter. Later that year, May 19, 1984, President Regan presented Michael with a Special Achievement Award for his cooperation in the National Ad Campaign Against Drunk Driving. Michael's concern with the underprivileged and terminally ill is endless. On April 1984, 14-year old David Smithee, who was terminally ill with Cystic Fibrosis, last request was to meet Michael. Of course Michael granted that request inviting Smithee to his California home. Through the Brass Ring Society, a organization that caters to the wishes of terminally ill children, David Smithee got his last wish before passing May 1984. Even when he was doubted by others, Michael was more than ready to rectify any inconsistencies. On July 5, 1984 Michael received a letter from a 11-year old fan, Ladonna Jones, accusing Michael of being "selfish and just out for money". Michael, thereafter, held a press conference to inform the public of changes in the tour ticket's organization, and announced that all of his proceeds, $5 million, would be distributed to three different charities: T.J. Martell Foundation for Lukemia and Cancer Research, The United Negro College Fund and Camp Ronald McDonald for Good Times. Michael was on a mission to save the world, one piece at a time. In 1985, he gathered together over thirty stars for "We Are the World". The charity, USA for Africa, received over $63 million for humanitarian aid for the US and Africa. Worldwide, he has left his mark, and earned a great deal of love, respect and admiration. In 1992, Michael visited the land of his ancestors to be part in a ceremony that took place under a sacred tree in the gold mining village of Krindjabo. They crowned him with a gold crown and announced him as "King of Sani". He couldn't help but to be involved. On May 5, 1993, Michael and President Jimmy Carter, were chairmen on the Heal Our Children/Heal the World. They promoted their "Atlanta Project Immunization Drive. His persistence in using his stardom in every way possible is not unrecognized. Between 1984-2009, Michael has received an outstanding amount of awards, this includes many Guinness World Book of Records, one being, "Pop star who supports the most charity organizations, over 38 charities. Michael was very talented, giving and loving. His legacy will live on forever! A true modern Hero!