Children's Miracle Network

Ministry Saint Joseph's Children's Hospital

Will Rode
Wausau, Wisconsin

Will Rode

While most of us were enjoying the beautiful summer weather in June 2008, the lives of Bob and Kara Rode of Wausau were turned upside down. What appeared to be a bug bite on the back of their three-year-old son’s head, was soon diagnosed as something much worse.

Thinking that it was not serious, Kara took Will to see their physician the next morning. Blood tests were ordered. Kara soon learned that Will’s white cell count was very high, his platelets were low and he was anemic.

Following additional blood analysis, it was confirmed – Will had Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) a form of blood cancer. Will was referred to Dr. Michael McManus, Marshfield Clinic Pediatric Oncologist on staff at Saint Joseph’s Children’s Hospital. While other children Will’s age were playing, swimming and enjoying Wisconsin’s warm weather, Will was beginning his long battle against cancer. His treatment began with a blood draw, chest X-ray and bone marrow aspiration. Will was then admitted to Saint Joseph’s Children’s Hospital where he had an IV start, spinal tap, blood transfusion and chemotherapy.

Five days later, Will was discharged from the Hospital and began his outpatient treatment. The Rode’s journey has been a rollercoaster ride. “We have had a lot of ups and downs,” said Kara. “The ups are great and the downs make us more thankful for the positive things.” Although Will has required several inpatient hospitalizations, his overall treatments have remained outpatient. The Rode’s are optimistic that Will’s treatments will be completed by 2012.

“It is so strange now to see the rest of the world appear so normal when ours is so completely changed,” said Kara.

Just like the superheroes that he enjoys, Will has been a trooper throughout his two year ordeal. With his little sister, Ava, by his side, Will enjoys hockey and the Brewers.

The Rode family is very appreciative of all the support they have received from friends, family and the medical staff. “Be thankful for what you have,” said Kara. “It can change instantly! Be grateful for your children and their health.”

Patti Shafto-Carlson
Director of Development - Children's Services
cmn@ministryhealth.org