Dr. William Schrader will retire on Dec. 31, 2024.
From residency to retirement, pediatric orthopedic surgeon Dr. William Schrader’s guiding principle has been to surround himself with good people and treat them well.
“I have been blessed to be a part of a great department and a great hospital,” Dr. Schrader said.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Schrader credits three people for their impact on his career. Dr. Patrick Flanagan, former chairman of the residency program at Akron City Hospital, selected Dr. Schrader as a resident. “He gave me the opportunity to become an orthopedic surgeon,” Dr. Schrader said. He also cited Dr. Dennis Weiner, the previous chair of pediatric orthopedics at Akron Children’s, as an inspiration. “He felt that caring for children was one of the greatest callings in medicine.”
Dr. Schrader with his patient, Annie Taggart
And finally, Dr. Schrader acknowledged Dr. Patrick Riley, Sr. “I am fortunate to have had him as a practice partner for almost 36 years. I’m proud to have him as a mentor, partner and friend.”
Over his long career, Dr. Schrader built relationships with patients as well as colleagues. He’s treated the children (and even grandchildren) of former patients, and some continue to include him in important life events. “I have had patients invite me to their weddings; being included in their family touches my heart.”
Dr. Schrader retires at the end of December.
What brought you to Children’s?
I was a resident in orthopedic surgery at Akron City Hospital (now Summa). Akron Children’s Hospital was always my favorite residency rotation.
What was going on in your life then?
It was an exciting time. After four years of college, four years of medical school, five years of orthopedic surgery residency and a year of subspecialty fellowship training, it was surreal to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Although my wife and I are not native to Akron, we were delighted to make a commitment to practice and stay here for the rest of our lives.
What have your biggest contributions been while here?
I served as the surgical consultant for our skeletal dysplasia clinic. Over the years, we have developed surgical approaches for the leg deformities that are so common in these patients. I have also performed many limb lengthening procedures for patients with significant discrepancies in their leg lengths. I believe that this has improved their quality of life.
I developed the Osteogenesis Imperfecta Clinic and served as the surgical director. Along with our comprehensive medical team, we are able to improve the lives of children with fragile bones.
Other than new buildings and construction, how has Akron Children’s changed since you started here?
When I first started my residency and eventual practice here, most providers were independent practitioners. Although they were excellent, the movement toward hospital-based providers has allowed for more standardization and a more rapid development of all our specialties. I firmly believe that we have some of the best practitioners in all specialties here at Children’s, providing high quality care.
What gave you the most satisfaction at work?
Always, always, always the patient care. We have many duties: education, research, committee work and more. However, caring for injured, disabled or sick children fulfills my primary motivation for becoming a physician and pediatric orthopedic surgeon. Becoming part of their care and support system, and part of their families, is the most fulfilling aspect of my vocation.
What do you look forward to the most in retirement?
Spontaneity. Our lives as health care providers are typically so highly structured. I’m looking forward to being able to design my own day-to-day activities and interactions.
I was recently asked to be on a nonprofit board for a charity that will supply handicap equipment to children in Africa. That will be a big, fulfilling project.
What couldn’t you live without?
Family and friends. Coffee and my iPad.
Dr. Schrader enjoying time with his family.
What music do you like? Where and how do you listen to it?
My favorite band is Pink Floyd. I keep up to date on current music through SiriusXM and my daughters’ recommendations. My wife, daughters and their spouses are country and bluegrass fans. I try my best to understand that.
What’s the last book you read?
I recently finished The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride. I’ll read anything if it’s good—fiction, nonfiction, history, etc.
What do you like to do when you’re not at work?
I like simple home repairs and have a full woodworking shop in the basement. I enjoy gardening and being outdoors. I play a little golf, try to get some exercise and have a group of retired friends to hang out with.
I have a nine-year-old grandson who lives in Cuyahoga Falls. He’s my best buddy. He’s an avid fisherman, so there’s a lot of that coming up!
Dr. Schrader with his wife and grandson.
My two major passions are reading and bonsai. I got hooked on bonsai, the Japanese art of growing and styling miniature trees, over fifteen years ago. It is my peaceful, stress-free time, just me and my trees.
Do you have any advice for people just starting at Children’s?
Look for a niche. Find something that fills a void in patient care. Develop an expertise and passion for that. You’ll have a much better practice experience and will stand out amongst your peers. It often leads to education, research or leadership opportunities.
