Ryan needs your help!

On May 8th, 2025, my partner Ryan suffered a catastrophic hemorrhagic pontine stroke while staying in Jackson, Wyoming. It came without warning and changed our lives in an instant.

He was airlifted to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center and spent nearly two weeks in the ICU. That first day, doctors told me he might never move again. They said Ryan had something called Locked-In Syndrome—his mind was intact, but his body was paralyzed. They prepared me for the worst, saying we’d be lucky if he could move his eyes to say “yes” or “no.”

But Ryan isn’t just anyone.

From day one, he defied the odds. Slowly but surely, he began regaining movement—first in his left side, then limited facial expressions, and now he's even beginning to move his right limbs. His recovery has been nothing short of remarkable.

After four days intubated, Ryan progressed to a tracheostomy and feeding tube. With the incredible help of his mom, we arranged a medical flight to bring him home to Charleston, SC, where his support network is strong. He is now at a long-term acute care hospital in Mt. Pleasant, working hard every day in physical and occupational therapy and weaning off the ventilator.

Who I Am

My name is April, and I’m Ryan’s partner. I’ve been by his side every step of this journey. I’ve had to leave my job and life in Wyoming to care for Ryan and help manage his recovery. It's been heartbreaking, overwhelming, and full of uncertainty—but also full of small victories, hope, and love. Ryan’s strength inspires me every single day, and I’m committed to walking this path with him, no matter how long it takes.

Why We Need Help

Ryan is the most generous, kindhearted man I know. He’s strong, loyal, and fiercely independent—the kind of person who would drop everything to help someone in need. Asking for help isn’t easy for him. But we need it.

Ryan’s journey is far from over. After this stage of care, he’ll transition to a neuro rehab facility before he can come home. He’ll need specialized equipment, adaptive modifications at home (like a ramp), and continued therapy. Medical bills and copays are already piling up. Our fundraising goal will help cover:

Ryan has already come so far and he’s not done fighting. Every day, he’s proving that miracles do happen.

If you’re able, please consider donating to help Ryan continue this journey of healing. Whether it’s $5 or $50, every little bit truly makes a difference. And if you can’t give, sharing this page means the world to us.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your support.