Since 2009, “Mary,” a former sight-impaired woman and teacher for the Santa Barbara City College Continuing Education in Santa Barbara, California, keeps reminding Michele: “You are unforgettable” and “You are my little golden bell.”

In 2009, when a Workers’ Compensation for Applicants attorney (and a mom to her two high-school children, the family’s Yellow Labrador and the family home), Michele spent 80 hours or more over several months, navigating and solving medical, legal, and landlord-tenant issues for Mary. Then, Michele spent additional sleuthing time to learn about and locate the California Council of the Blind in Sacramento, California (“Council”) to assist Mary with an application for free rent for one-year. Michele wrote and submitted an application for consideration on Mary’s behalf. Mary was selected to receive a one-year term of paid rent by the Council to allow her to have the necessary eye surgery to restore her sight.

These are Mary’s words to Michele in March 2017:

Respect and trust from Michael Orland for Michele’s simple acts of kindness as a pro bono advocate regarding a legal matter. The amazing Michael Orland is a Pianist/Vocal Coach/Musical Director for many TV shows including Fox’s American Idol television show (2002-2016), its new re-boot on the ABC network, as well as current Music Director for actress/singer Kristin Chenoweth, TV & Broadway artist Katharine McPhee, for TV & Movie’s Erich Bergen, and for many other well-known stars.