March 25, 2025 – Fillmore, WI – For Peter Muth, life has been an emotional roller coaster the past two years, but through the pain and uncertainty, his family has emerged stronger, supported by a community that has stood beside them every step of the way.
Peter and his wife, Gina, are the proud parents of two beautiful children: their lively four-year-old daughter, Josie, and their young son, Wade, who will turn two on April 4. What should have been a joyful time for their family turned into a nightmare when, at just 18 months old, Wade was diagnosed with leukemia.
“I just remember he kept getting sick. Ear infections, colds, things that wouldn’t go away no matter what we did,” said Peter. “After months of back-and-forth with doctors, we finally got the news: it was leukemia.”
It was October 21, 2024, a date that forever changed their lives. “It was overwhelming,” Peter said. “But the outpouring of support from friends, family, and even complete strangers was just incredible. I couldn’t be more grateful for the people who stepped in and helped us, allowing me to focus on Wade and be there for him.”
Wade’s journey through chemotherapy was not easy. The first month was the hardest. Wade’s health took a turn for the worse after his first round of chemo. Doctors discovered he caught a cold, which led to complications during the insertion of his port, a procedure necessary for receiving chemotherapy.
Wade had to be intubated for nearly a week. But despite the odds, Wade fought through it, showing resilience and determination that impressed the doctors.
“Through it all, Wade never slowed down. After that first round, he was running around the hospital hallways like nothing happened,” said Peter. “I think he surprised everyone, including us.”
The strength of their son has been a beacon of hope for Peter and Gina, and as difficult as this journey has been, they have leaned heavily into their faith. “You have to lean into your faith in times like these,” Peter said. “There’s nothing you can do to change the situation. It’s out of your hands. All you can do is pray, and trust that God has a plan.”
Today, Wade is in remission, a victory they celebrate every day. But the journey isn’t over. Wade still faces monthly visits to the hospital for the next year, followed by even more follow-up appointments over the years to come.
“We’re in remission right now, but we have to stay vigilant. If the leukemia comes back, we’ll have to consider a bone marrow transplant,” Peter said. Despite the uncertainty, the Muth family remains hopeful.
On Saturday, March 29, the Muth family will join friends, family, and neighbors for a special fundraiser at Fillmore Turner Hall. The event is organized by their incredible community who has rallied around them, offering support, prayers, and love throughout this challenging time.
“This event is a celebration of Wade, and it’s a chance for us to say thank you to everyone who has been there for us,” Peter said. “We’re so thankful, and we want to share this moment with all the people who helped us get through it.”
When asked about the fundraiser, Peter admitted he’s not sure exactly where the funds will go yet, but the focus is on helping their family with the costs associated with Wade’s treatments.
“We haven’t really thought about it. It’s just been so overwhelming. But any help we get will be appreciated. This has been a lot to carry, and the support we’ve received has been everything,” he said.
Wade’s diagnosis and treatment have tested the strength of Peter and Gina’s marriage, but it has also brought them closer. “We definitely came closer through this,” Peter said. “Gina has been amazing through all of this. She stayed at the hospital most of the time while I worked and took care of things at the farm. We were both just doing what needed to be done.”
The Muth family is deeply rooted in the farming community. Their family dairy, Cedar Lawn Farm, is a fifth-generation farm, and the love for the land runs deep. “We’ve been farming for generations, and it’s all we know,” Peter said. “But through everything, we’ve been able to keep the farm running with the help of neighbors and friends. I never had to worry about it; they stepped in and helped whenever I needed them.”
Wade’s favorite things? “He loves trucks and tractors,” Peter said. “I think it might be because of me, but I’d like to think he’s got a bit of a passion for it already.”
There will be a tractor ride Saturday with lineup starting at 1 p.m. and hitting the road at 2 p.m. There will be a short scenic ride through Washington and Ozaukee County (Route to be determined)
Decorate those tractors to show your support for Wade and Leukemia awareness.
️Food (Brats, Burgers, chips, and Ice Cream)
️Raffles
️Silent Auction
️Classic Rock Band “ILLUSION”! Playing from 6-10 pm
If you have any questions you can call or text Jenny @ 262-483-0543.
If you would like to donate items for Raffles or Silent Auctions or Volunteer your time the day of the event, please contact Jenny.
Wade’s strength has inspired everyone who has met him, and as they gather on Saturday for the fundraiser, they will celebrate more than just the support of their community—they will celebrate Wade, the little boy who has shown them the true meaning of resilience.
To anyone considering attending the fundraiser, Peter said, “We’d love to see you there. Come celebrate with us. This is about Wade, and we’re so thankful to have all of you by our side.”
