Help Coach Slinskey

A new race for a tough runner

This one’s personal.

When news came across my phone that Mike Slinskey was in the hospital, awaiting surgery for a mass on his brain stem, the immediate reaction was one of denial.

I’ve known Mike for close to 40 years. Aside from being a genuinely nice human being, a kind soul and a friend, my immediate thought of Mike is of a strong man, a tough man, one of the most prolific and gritty runners I’ve ever been around.

So the image of him in a hospital gown, awaiting surgery, was so incongruous. Mike is 55, not old by any standards. He’s strong, he’s tough, he uplifts so many lives as a coach and a running role model. He’s helped so many for so long.

And now, Mike needs help.

When the Mid-Hudson Road Runners Club called, asking to promote his gofundme page, they only had to ask once. Here’s the link. Help Coach Slinskey.

Here’s what the MHRRC posted on their Facebook page:

Dear MHRRC Community,

Mike Slinskey has been a pillar of the Hudson Valley running scene for over 30 years—Olympic trials qualifier, record holder, race winner, volunteer, coach, and friend to so many.

He’s now facing a serious health challenge after the discovery of a mass on his brain stem and is currently in surgery (as we type this post) to begin what will be a long road to recovery. Mike is in good spirits and ready to fight, just as he has on every starting line. Now it’s our turn to support him—please consider donating to help with medical expenses and lost income during this difficult time.

And here is the text on the gofundme page:

My name is Liz Gallo Zych. I am a parent of a Cross Country and Track and Field athlete at Our Lady of Lourdes high school in Poughkeepsie, NY.

I am reaching out to our Lourdes community and beyond to support someone who has given so much to our students and local running community over the years — Coach Mike Slinskey.

Coach Slinskey is the heart and soul of the Track & Field and Cross Country programs at Our Lady of Lourdes High School. A dedicated coach, mentor, and friend, Coach Slinskey has spent countless hours training, guiding, and inspiring our student-athletes. Whether it’s early morning practices, weekend meets, or simply being there with a kind word or a smile, he always shows up — with a huge heart and an even bigger sense of humor.

His passion for the sport of running is matched only by his care for each and every athlete who wears the Lourdes uniform. Coach Slinskey helps our kids believe in themselves — on the course, on the track, and in life.

Right now, Coach Slinskey needs us. He is preparing to undergo surgery for a tumor located on his brain stem — and has a serious and challenging road ahead.

This GoFundMe has been created to support Coach Slinskey as he faces this health battle, and to help ensure he can continue his incredible work with the Lourdes Track & Field and Cross Country teams. Donations will go toward medical costs, recovery support, and keeping Coach Slinskey connected with the sport and the students he loves.

Let’s come together to show Coach just how much he means to this community. Every contribution, big or small, will help ease the burden — and remind him he’s not alone on this journey.

Thank you for your generosity, love, and prayers.

Be better today than yesterday because Coach Slinskey said you can!

Let’s all pray for Mike’s recovery as he embarks on a very different race, with a long course ahead of him. We hope to see him on the starting line again in the future.