The Face Behind the 5K

Shortly after the start of Marshall's second grade school year, he began seeing specialists at St. Louis Children’s Hospital for recurrent swollen lymph nodes. Despite being strong and feeling great, he was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic lymphoma just a few weeks later in October 2024. This devastating news was immediately followed by an intensive regimen of chemotherapy treatments and a brief hospital stay. 

After 30 days of treatment, both in-patient and outpatient, Marshall was tested again and found to have persistent cancer cells in his bone marrow, resulting in his medical team modifying his diagnosis to acute lymphoblastic leukemia. This change from lymphoma to leukemia meant Marshall’s treatment plan was extended to three years. Chemotherapy treatments are currently done as outpatient, meaning Marshall can be comfortable and heal in his own space. On March 8, 2025, we received the call we had been waiting for - REMISSION. That didn't mean the chemo journey was over, it simply meant we had reached a crucial milestone in killing the cancer! Now, our job was to KEEP it away.

Prior to his diagnosis, Marshall was as energetic and adventurous as any growing boy! He drank chocolate milk by the gallons and could eat his weight in pizza and spaghetti! He was also enrolled in karate and soccer and enjoyed hiking, ziplining camping, and ice skating. While adventures are limited for now, Marshall’s smile is still infectious and his attitude upbeat. His resilience and courage are truly inspiring to all who know him.  

The location of Miles for Marshall was an intentional pick, as Patriot's Park was a common park Marshall and his mom would explore after school and on weekends throughout the entire year. They spent hours exploring the trails and playing in the spillway, and for that reason, the entire park holds a special place in their hearts.