ABOUT US

The Swistak family established the Dr. Stephen Swistak Memorial Fund to honor Steve’s life and carry forward his legacy—supporting student-athletes who share his values and advancing research and awareness for esophageal cancer.

Steve was a proud Michigan State University alumnus, a varsity hockey player from 2000–2004, and a 2008 graduate of the College of Human Medicine. He went on to complete his general surgery residency at St. John Medical Center, followed by a colorectal surgery fellowship at LSU Health Shreveport. He had just begun his career as an attending colorectal surgeon at Detroit Medical Center when he was diagnosed with recurrent esophageal cancer that had spread throughout his body.

Steve passed away on June 11, 2015. He had recently been married, and his daughter was just one month old.

While we continue to grieve his loss, we are committed to channeling that grief into purpose. Steve was deeply passionate about helping others and making a difference. Through this fund, we strive to continue that mission and create a lasting impact in his honor.

Over the years, our efforts have grown to support several meaningful initiatives:

1) The Stephen Swistak Memorial Endowed Scholarship at Michigan State University
This scholarship is awarded to a hockey student-athlete who embodies the qualities Steve lived by—hard work, dedication, teamwork, and grit.

2) The Munn Ice Arena Renovation Project
Supporting enhancements to the facility to better serve student-athletes as they pursue both academic and athletic excellence. The Team Physician office has been dedicated in Steve’s honor.

3) The Esophageal Cancer Action Network (ECAN)
A cause close to Steve’s heart, ECAN promotes awareness and advances research in esophageal cancer. Steve worked closely with the organization during his own treatment.

4) Partnership with The Rainbow Connection
Helping grant wishes for Michigan children facing life-threatening illnesses. Our goal is to fulfill at least two wishes each year, bringing hope and joy to these families.

"Chop Wood. Carry Water." - Zen saying