William Schaefer’s life was altered at the age of 14 with a diagnosis of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
As an eighth grader, William underwent five months of chemotherapy, which caused physical changes, as well as concentration and memory challenges.
William persevered.
Following his chemotherapy, William didn’t miss a beat. The next year, he began high school with determination and purpose. As a freshman, he succeeded academically, was a member of the junior varsity soccer team, and he also gave back to Nationwide Children’s Hospital as a Pediatric Cancer Patient Champion Volunteer at the Nationwide Zoo Race.
Throughout his high school career, William has continued to give back to Nationwide Children’s Hospital as a pediatric cancer spokesman for telethons and as a patient champion who raised money for oncology research through the Nationwide Children’s Marathon. William was also a Cleveland Chapter Representative for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, speaking to Columbus-area schools about his experience. Additionally, he served as the Subway Promotional Patient for pediatric cancer this past September.
Physically, William’s lymphoma did not slow him down.
He has been a vital part of the soccer program at Lexington High School all four years of high school, playing at the varsity level for the last three years. As a junior, he served as junior captain and earned honorable mention in the Ohio Cardinal Conference. This year, William earned OCC first team honors as a senior team captain. He was named to the district all-star team and earned all-Ohio honors, making 2nd team all-Ohio. As a senior, William also joined the varsity football team as a kicker. These accomplishments speak to William’s strength and determination.
Academically, William had to re-learn how to learn. The chemotherapy treatments significantly affected his memory and concentration. William has shown patience and humility, as his learning required more time and effort.
As one of his teachers wrote about him, “I have had the pleasure of working as William’s tutor for the past two years. During that time, I have watched William grow into a mature and responsible college-bound student. When we first met, I was immediately impressed with William’s kind nature and his quick wit. William is a friend and a leader amongst his peers.”
Principal Kevin Young said in his McGowan Courage Award nomination letter, “William worked diligently to achieve academic success while keeping his signature sense of humor the whole time.”
William sought the help of teachers and tutors, and strengthened his skills. He is currently taking advance placement and college-level classes with success.
“William is destined to accomplish great things,” Young said. “He has demonstrated leadership and determination that have made a positive impact on our school and community.”
William’s mother Michele said these last four years have been a journey.
“He’s doing well and has really accomplished a lot, especially this past year,” she said.
She said she’s thankful and appreciative of the school’s support, adding that it was exciting to hear about William’s nomination for the McGowan Courage Award.
“It’s touching for us to hear that other people have seen what he’s gone through and how he’s preserved and what he’s been able to accomplish these last three-and-a-half years despite his battle with cancer four years ago,” she said.
The Rotary McGowan Courage Award is supported by these sponsors: OhioHealth, Richland Bank, Haring Realty, Mechanics Bank, Gorman Rupp, North Central State College, Richland Source, Shelby Rotary Club, The Ohio State University at Mansfield, Mansfield Art Center, The Renaissance Theatre, Snyder Funeral Home, Hamilton Insurance Group, Mansfield Area Y, Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development, Mansfield Memorial Homes, Buckeye Horizon, Chuck Warner & Associates, Baker’s Collision Repair, Catalyst Life Services, Miller’s Diamond Jewelry, Scott and Adena King, Charles Cook, Jon Young, Dan Phallen, Gary Stroup, Harold Davis, Steve Cummins, Karen Redfearn, Scott and Mary Young, Betty Preston, Pam Sigenthaler, Melanie Riggleman, DJ Daniels, Win Meek, Walt Chaffee, Pat Chilcote, and David Crawford.
The Rotary McGowan Courage Award was founded in 1968 by the Rotary Club of Mansfield. It was named in honor of Brigadier Bill McGowan, past commander of the Mansfield Salvation Army Post and long-time member of Rotary.
The award’s focus is to recognize and honor local high school students who have faced life experiences of adversity and hardship with extraordinary courage, tenacity and fortitude.
Award recipients are invited to attend a special luncheon where they will be recognized by local dignitaries and elected officials who have ordered individual proclamations in honor of each student. A certificate from the Mansfield Rotary Club will also be presented, along with an American flag that was flown over the U. S. Capital Building, certificate for one class at North Central State College, gift certificate for a show at The Renaissance Theatre and a family membership to the Mansfield Art Center.
Award recipients will also receive a financial award of $1,000 which may be used toward any further education, work or other needs. Additionally, each student will receive a savings account certificate from Richland Bank in the amount of $100.
