Embracing life

TIFFIN --- In August 2022, Patrick Steyer was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) - doctors at St. Vincent Mercy in Toledo immediately connected him with the James Cancer Center at OSU. Doctors there consulted with Oncologists/Hematologists at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus because this type of leukemia is most often found in much younger patients. Doctors at Nationwide have more experience treating patients with Down Syndrome and ALL. He was moved to Nationwide and started treatment within days of diagnosis. After a period of challenges and setbacks, Steyer is now back on track and embracing life to the fullest. He is currently sharing an apartment in Tiffin with a roommate and couldn't be happier. "I love having my place," says Steyer with a smile. Returning to his daily routine, Steyer spends his weekdays at the day program at the School of Opportunity. Reconnecting with friends and familiar faces, he continues to grow stronger as he dedicates time to exercising his muscles in therapy twice a week. Steyer has set ambitious goals for himself. He has declared himself done with the wheelchair and aims to move without the assistance of a walker by the end of March. "I want the community to know that I am very excited to be back and I appreciate all of their support," Steyer commented. With the support of his friends, including Kim and Cory Hohman, Scott and Tonya Hohman, Uncle Greg, and Aunt Kelly, he has attended a few boys' basketball games, which have been special outings for him. One of the highlights is the Celebrity Basketball game at Heidelberg, which took place Thursday. Steyer has been involved in basketball since 2009. "Patrick's love of New Riegel sports and our kids is truly inspirational to all of us," Jamie Lininger, athletic director/math teacher at New Riegel High School, said. "His spirit and passion for everything New Riegel energizes our kids during games and lifts our community. It has been difficult for all of us to watch him struggle the last few years, but it's been encouraging to see him at quite a few games this year. We all wish him the best!" One exciting opportunity Steyer is looking forward to is signing up for the Special Olympics Bowling team. He is excited about the prospect of participating in this new activity and showcasing his skills. Additionally, he is happy to be attending church at All Saints with Phil and Margaret and is grateful for the community support he receives. "Patrick's journey has impacted him in so many ways in addition to his community, family, friends, and all of us at the county board," Stephanie Coppler, service and support administrator from the Opportunity Center said. "Throughout the challenges, Patrick's optimism and faith never faded, I believe they played a big part in overcoming those challenges and getting him to where he is today. He never lost sight of who he was and what brought him joy with every day, he stayed hopeful that he would soon be returning to just that. We are all grateful and ecstatic to finally see Patrick back in programming, getting involved in his community again, and living independently. Patrick has always and will continue to make a lasting impression in our community." Despite his busy schedule and various activities, Steyer continues to undergo maintenance chemotherapy until January 2025. This involves monthly visits to Nationwide for checkups and treatments. While he appreciates the excellent care he receives at Nationwide, he also looks forward to the day when these visits will be behind him. "Patrick is an amazing advocate not only for himself but for all individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. He has overcome many obstacles but remains an integral part of our community." Lewis Hurst, superintendent at Seneca County Board of DD said.