Hello, my name is Colleen Massa and I have had the pleasure of getting to know Emily Ryan, the owner of Petal and Stem Florist, when my daughter got married. Not only does she run an exceptional floral business, but she is one of the kindest people I have ever encountered. Her commitment to philanthropy in her floral work is what led us to choose her. She donates florals to hospitals all over Cincinnati after her events, volunteers and teaches classes at the Ronald McDonald House and is constantly giving back to her community. It's time to give back to her. Over the past year my daughter and I have gotten to know her on a deeper level. Seeing her stay strong during the longest health battle is difficult, and add to that, she never wants to ask for help. I felt compelled to help tell her story in order to spread the word and assist her in the ever mounting medical bills.

Meet Emily Ryan...

Emily Ryan was living a happy, healthy life and attending Xavier University when everything changed. At the end of her freshman year, she woke up having lost all feeling in her lower body. After an emergency ambulance ride and countless tests at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, doctors discovered a spinal mass sitting dangerously on a major nerve root. Surgery was too risky, and no one could offer a clear path forward.

After months of excruciating back pain, using a walker, and searching for answers, Emily was accepted as a patient at the Cleveland Clinic—where she began a 12-year journey with a dedicated medical team. The mass caused permanent bladder damage, and at just 19, Emily had to begin self-catheterizing. Eventually, a bladder pacemaker restored some independence, and she returned to college and life with cautious optimism.

Despite the odds, Emily has endured more than 40 surgeries and countless treatments. Recently, things took a turn: new tumors were discovered on her spine, and she was added to the Cleveland Clinic tumor board. To manage the severe pain, she began participating in a ketamine trial that resets her pain receptors every 90 days, giving her crucial relief and reducing dependence on medications.

Then in October, Emily developed unbearable head pressure and was rushed to Cleveland Clinic. Scans revealed a brain meningocele, a massive CSF leak, a Chiari malformation, and thinning of the skull. In January, she underwent her first craniotomy. Three months later, a large bump appeared—another emergency. A second craniotomy removed a 6.6 cm pseudomeningocele and repaired additional leaks.

Emily is now recovering from her 49th surgery.

She continues to run a small business (Petal and Stem Florals)despite needing constant medical supplies, pacemaker maintenance, and regular surgeries. The floral community has stepped up to help her in this time of need by assisting her with her events and commitments. Her medical costs are astronomical—and rising. Without her family’s love and support, and access to Cleveland Clinic’s world-class care, none of this would be possible.

Now, we ask for your help. Contributions will go toward Emily’s ongoing treatment, travel expenses to and from Cleveland, and essential medical needs not covered by insurance.

Thank you for supporting Emily in her fight for health, stability, and hope.