At 16 years old, Skylar from Mosinee, Wisc. is smart, outgoing and deeply compassionate — qualities that shine even brighter as she faces unexpected health challenges with unwavering courage and the support of her care team at Marshfield Children’s Hospital.
What began as an ordinary childhood soon changed, setting Skylar on a medical journey that would require persistence and extraordinary care. But thanks to expert care and programs fueled by philanthropy, Skylar and her family never walked alone.
A Sudden Illness Changes Everything
In September 2020, Skylar was a healthy, active sixth grader when what seemed like a simple stomach bug turned into weeks of unexplained illness. After multiple doctor visits and emergency room trips, Skylar was admitted to Marshfield Children’s Hospital, where she spent six days undergoing extensive testing.
Doctors diagnosed Skylar with gastroparesis, a condition that affects how the stomach moves food through the digestive system. While the condition eventually resolved, her abdominal pain persisted, leaving unanswered questions and ongoing challenges.
A Long Road to Answers
Three years later, new symptoms began to appear, including flushing, dizziness, chest tightness and a racing heart — signaling that Skylar’s journey was far from over.
After additional testing, Skylar was diagnosed with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), a condition that affects blood flow and can cause symptoms like rapid heart rate, lightheadedness and fatigue when transitioning from sitting or lying down to standing.
As her care team continued searching for answers, more symptoms emerged — including joint pain, fatigue, rashes and fingers that became cold and changed color.
In January 2025, Skylar met with pediatric rheumatologist Dr. McClellan at Marshfield Children’s Hospital. After carefully listening to Skylar’s story and completing comprehensive testing, Dr. McClennan delivered a diagnosis that brought clarity: systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with class three lupus nephritis.
Lupus nephritis is inflammation of the kidneys caused by SLE, an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue and organs.
Moving Forward with Hope
Since her diagnosis, Skylar’s care team has worked tirelessly to manage her condition through medications and monthly infusions. While her lab results continue to improve, Skylar still experiences daily pain, fatigue and other symptoms associated with pediatric lupus nephritis. Through every challenge, she remains hopeful and determined.
Skylar and her family are deeply grateful for the exceptional care at Marshfield Children’s Hospital. From compassionate, dedicated physicians to the child life team, whose activities and emotional support help Skylar cope during hospital stays, each member of her care team plays an important role in her journey.
Dreaming Big
Looking ahead, Skylar dreams of attending college and becoming a pediatric nurse, inspired by the caregivers who continue to support her with expertise, empathy and encouragement.
While her medical journey is still unfolding, Skylar’s resilience and compassion shine brightly — offering hope to other children and families facing complex diagnoses.
Give for Children. Give for Good.
If you’re inspired by this story, give for local kids like Skylar today. 100% of your gift stays local to help kids across central and northern Wisconsin receive the care they need and the healthy futures they deserve.
With your support, we can ensure every child has access to world-class care, close to home.