On February 14, 2021, Ryan was diagnosed with Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) at Monmouth Medical Center. My sister, Jessica, brought my little nephew there because she was concerned that he was getting too dehydrated after a rough few days with symptoms of a stomach bug/gastroenteritis. Things changed quickly for my nephew once doctors determined that he was suffering from HUS. It is a condition caused by specific bacteria that release Shiga toxin into the blood, attacking red blood cells and the kidneys specifically. 
    The treatment is supportive care while the disease runs its course. There is no way to get rid of Shiga toxin once this process has occurred. His condition was severe enough that he was transported to CHOP (Children's Hospital of Philadelphia) the following morning. 
    In the past few days our otherwise healthy 5 year old has had multiple blood and platelet transfusions, a central line, an IJ catheter, and rounds of dialysis. Unfortunately, he now also suffers from a severe case of Pancreatitis. 
    Currently, there is no end in sight for when this will be over for our Rypie. The long term prognosis is unknown at this time. While the medical team at CHOP is doing everything they can, the worst outcome is not currently out of the question for Ryan. 
    We want you to know that Ryan is being the BRAVEST little boy and the most perfect and strongest fighter. He's charmed every doctor and nurse that has met him. 
    We are asking for our community of friends and family to help us support Jessica (the best Mom around) and Ryan through this incredibly hard time. We cannot even begin to fathom the medical bills that will be brought about because of this, and Jessica is going to be out of work for the foreseeable future. 
   We will also accept prayers, good wishes, and any healthy thoughts that you can send our Ryan's way.