Odin the Brave

When Brad and Darby Muller walked into their 20-week ultrasound, they were filled with excitement. They couldn’t wait to see their baby and find out whether they were having a boy or a girl. The ultrasound technician happily revealed that they were expecting a son. But moments later everything changed. The technician left to bring in their doctor, who offered congratulations before delivering the life-changing news that their son had spina bifida.

Tears filled the room as they tried to process the diagnosis. They had done everything right. How could this be happening? The following days were a whirlwind of emotions and medical consultations. A referral to a maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialist in Des Moines confirmed the diagnosis, but little could be predicted about the challenges their son would face.

They soon learned about a fetal surgery option available in Minnesota, where a specialized team could perform a procedure to repair the opening in Odin’s spine. The operation was a success, but the months that followed were filled with challenges.

On March 9, 2020, Odin was born in the midst of a global pandemic. Though his parents were overjoyed to meet him, the reality of his condition set in quickly. His complications were more severe than anticipated and he required a tracheostomy, long-term ventilation, a G-tube and a shunt. He spent the first five months of his life in the NICU. Despite the challenges, there was a ray of hope. Odin could move his feet and respond to touch. It was a small but miraculous sign that the fetal surgery had worked.

Finding the right resources to support Odin’s development became the family’s top priority. Determined to give Odin every opportunity to thrive, the family began searching for a place that would provide both essential resources and the support of loved ones. That search led them to Waverly Health Center (WHC) and the Center for Pediatric Therapies where all services are provided by Taylor Therapy.

There, Odin would receive specialized occupational, speech and physical therapy tailored to his unique needs. The impact was immediate and life changing. Today, Odin walks independently with his walker and even takes small steps without it. He communicates using sign language and an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device. His patience, focus and emotional regulation have significantly improved, preparing him for success in the classroom.

His therapists Kristin and Bailey have become more than just providers, but an extension of family. Their unwavering dedication to understanding Odin’s challenges and developing personalized strategies for his success has been invaluable. They have supported the family through some of their most difficult moments, always offering guidance and encouragement. Odin loves therapy days. His favorite motivator is the slide, which he eagerly works toward every session! 

The support from Waverly Health Center extends beyond therapy. Odin’s primary care physician, Dr. Wagner, has played an instrumental role in his health and well-being. "Dr. Wagner and her staff have gone above and beyond to help Odin work through his medical anxiety and built a sense of trust in him," his mother shares. "Even though he still gets scared sometimes, they reassure him and do their best to go at his pace!" This relationship of trust and understanding has made a world of difference for Odin and his family. "I would recommend Dr. Wagner and her staff to every parent because her compassion and understanding extend to the parents as well. I always leave her office feeling a sense of support and comfort."

One of the unexpected blessings of this journey has been the connections they have formed with other parents at the Center for Pediatric Therapies. Even when their experiences differ, it helps ease the isolation that often accompanies raising a child with special needs.

As for Odin’s future, the possibilities are endless. He already has a passion for music, and his parents think he may become a drummer one day! Thanks to his own determination, the love of his family and the guidance of the dedicated staff at WHC, he is thriving. His journey is a testament to the power of resilience, the strength of a supportive community and the boundless potential that exists in every child.