Back to Success Stories - A Legacy of Service and Strength: Mike’s Story

For 12 years, Mike Goodwin dedicated his career to federal service, including the last year and a half at the CDC as a Contract Specialist. In his role, he oversaw the full lifecycle of acquisitions—from initial planning and market research to solicitation, award and contract management— to ensure scientists and public health experts had the specialized equipment, services, and research tools needed to protect communities across the country. Mike took great pride in supporting critical public health efforts and found deep meaning in work that directly contributed to improving lives. Although his time at CDC was shorter than his overall federal career, he described it as the best job he had ever had in government service and truly believed he would retire there one day.

That hope was shaken when Mike was unexpectedly impacted by a Reduction in Force (RIF) while also recovering from a kidney transplant. The emotional and financial strain of managing medical recovery while facing job loss created an incredibly difficult chapter in his life. 

The financial support from the CDC Mutual Aid Fund helped relieve the overwhelming burden of medical expenses and daily costs during his recovery. With the support of these funds, Mike was able to focus on healing without the constant stress of financial uncertainty, giving him the stability and peace of mind he needed during a challenging time. He also expressed deep gratitude to the donors and the CDC Mutual Aid staff for their compassion and generosity during his time of need.

Mike hopes others realize that transition and hardship do not define a person’s value. After experiencing the loss of a job he loved following years of dedicated public service, he understands how difficult and uncertain those moments can feel, but he also wants others to know there is a community ready to help. His story is one of resilience, perseverance, and overcoming challenges, and he hopes people remember that it is okay to accept support during times of need. As Mike shared, “We spend our careers serving the public, and in times of personal crisis, that spirit of service often comes back to us through the kindness of others.”