Our Story
In March 2013, our family received heartbreaking news as our son was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia at the age of 15. Over night, our lives drastically changed as we helplessly watched Jake endure chemotherapy, countless blood tests and spinal taps, and the emotional rollercoaster of a battle that no teenager should be forced to face. After relapsing, we found that Jake's cancer cells had an extremely rare chromosomal abnormality, making the cancer cells more resistant to treatment.
In May 2014, Jake received a bone marrow transplant from an international donor in Germany. Jake spent months in the hospital in preparation for and recovery from the transplant. After returning home, we were hopeful as tests consistently came back cancer free. Through his recovery, Jake struggled through Graft Versus Host Disease (GVHD) and other complications, including an infection in his lungs. On November 16th, 2014, we said our tearful goodbyes as Jake earned his angel wings.
Through all of his challenges, Jake's strength and kindness never faded. While fighting for his life, Jake had a strong desire to come to the aid of other pediatric oncology patients at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. We Believe Foundation was started to carry on Jake's legacy of kindness, caring, courage and helping other oncology patients and families.
Help us support pediatric cancer patients and their families by getting involved.
In May 2014, Jake received a bone marrow transplant from an international donor in Germany. Jake spent months in the hospital in preparation for and recovery from the transplant. After returning home, we were hopeful as tests consistently came back cancer free. Through his recovery, Jake struggled through Graft Versus Host Disease (GVHD) and other complications, including an infection in his lungs. On November 16th, 2014, we said our tearful goodbyes as Jake earned his angel wings.
Through all of his challenges, Jake's strength and kindness never faded. While fighting for his life, Jake had a strong desire to come to the aid of other pediatric oncology patients at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. We Believe Foundation was started to carry on Jake's legacy of kindness, caring, courage and helping other oncology patients and families.
Help us support pediatric cancer patients and their families by getting involved.