Patient Stories
Jena's Story
Jena is a leukemia survivor thanks to our Blood and Marrow Transplant Program. Watch Jena's story and hear about her prognosis for the future.
Demaray's story
Sara learned she had the genetic trait for sickle cell disease when her first child passed away from the disease. Because of the heart-breaking experience, Sara came to Children's Hospital of Wisconsin's Sickle Cell Clinic for genetic testing prior to giving birth to her son Demaray. When Demaray was born with the same disease that claimed his sister, the staff at Children's Hospital worked with Sara on early treatment and education.
Thanks to advancements in early diagnosis and treatment, most kids born with this disorder grow up to live relatively healthy and productive lives. Sickle cell disease is an inherited disorder in which red blood cells are abnormally shaped. This abnormality can result in painful episodes, serious infections, chronic anemia and damage to body organs.
Today, 8-year-old Demaray doesn't mind coming to the hospital for his once-a-month blood transfusions because the staff keep him entertained. Sara is happy the treatment Demaray receives keeps him doing the things he loves, like scouting, playing kickball and reading books.
Bobby's story
Bobby was born in February 2002, soon after birth, he was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia, a cancer normally not found in infants. Doctors sent him to Children's Hospital, where he received chemotherapy at 3 weeks of age. He received a bone marrow transplant at 4 months, but the cancer returned and he had a second bone marrow transplant at 2 years old. His donor was his 7-year-old birth sister.
Because his was a rare case, the team consulted with physicians from around the world to provide the best care for Bobby.His parents recall meeting many patients from around the country and felt fortunate they had Children's Hospital right in their backyard.
Bobby has been in remission for more than 5 years and continues to see many specialists at the hospital.
Michelle's Story
In 2005, Michelle was diagnosed with aplastic anemia. The family's doctors in California wanted to keep treating her with medications, but Michelle's parents sought other options.
After extensive research, they found that Children's Hospital had the experience necessary to help Michelle. The family flew to meet Dr. Margolis and were surprised at how much time he spent with them.
The family believed nothing was overlooked and every contingency was provided for.
Today Michelle is very active. She has earned her scuba diving certification and enjoys soccer, dance and musical theatre.
Garin's story
Garin was diagnosed at age 1 with Langerhan's Cell Histiocytosis. Within three weeks, Garin's parents found out that their son had to start chemotherapy. However, Garin's disease did not respond.
The physicians at Children's Hospital put him on the blood marrow transplant list. In 2003, Garin received a transplant from an unrelated donor, a procedure in which the physicians at Children's Hospital specialize. His parents say that Garin has improved every day since the transplant.
With the help from the physicians and staff at Children's Hospital, Garin has never let his disease keep him from being the energetic boy that he is.
Maddie's story
Maddie was diagnosed with a neuroendocrine carcinoid tumor in the base of her tongue the day after her 15th birthday. Her treatment included chemotherapy to shrink the tumor, followed by surgery. Maddie's treatment required a tracheotomy and use of a feeding tube.
Maddie and her family were overwhelmed not only by the care they received at Children's Hospital, but also by the compassion displayed by every staff member they encountered.
Maddie is in college pursing a degree in marketing.
Michele's story
Michele was 24 and working as a nurse at Children's Hospital when she needed a blood marrow transplant for aplastic anemia. After investigating adult hospitals in the area, she discovered that Children's Hospital would be the best place for her care because of the hospital's expertise in that disease. Bruce Camitta, MD, Oncology, and Michele's peers helped her through the process.
Michele works as a nurse clinician with the Central Access Team for Children's Hospital. She is married and with two children who keep her busy when she's not working.