Michael Wingate Jr. [MW], age 34, is a Katrina survivor from New Orleans, LA. A graduate of Xavier University, MW was serving as a Minister and Finance Manager at The Upperroom Bible Church. MW chose not to evacuate because he thought he would be safe in New Orleans. MW experienced a week long evacuation process after Katrina hit. In particular, he swam through lots of contaminated water looking for food and met several people on his way to the Superdome. His life was threatened by the National Guard as he tried to assist people who were dehydrated. He slept on the ground for days and was then transported to a prison in Dallas being used as a shelter. Finally, he arrived in Houston 1 week later.