Love and Support for The Wheeler Family

*12/31/21 Update*

I can’t thank all of the friends, family, and even complete strangers for all of the thoughts, prayers, kindness, and  generosity you have shown over the last 9 years, but especially the last 21 months. While Ryan’s passing brings unimaginable sadness, there is comfort in knowing he is now at peace and can rest.

I have witnessed more strength and selflessness than one could imagine from Ryan throughout his battle and I admire him so much for that. Meghan has devoted her entire self to support, care for, and love Ryan throughout every single step of this journey. As hard as Ryan fought for himself, I truly believe he fought harder for her and Ryker. 

There will be a CHET 529 Education fund established for Meghan and Ryan’s son Ryker, now age 3. Any funds collected will continue to help with medical expenses but also to help support Rykers future education and well-being as Meghan navigates her life with Ryker. I ask that you please continue to keep them in your hearts as they navigate through this difficult time. 

With much love and so much thanks,
Lisa Koczak


*Original post- March 2020*


Dear Family and Friends,

As many of you know and to those of you who may not, the Wheeler family has been fighting a courageous battle with Ryan’s health for the last 7 years. With the love and support of his entire family, especially his wife Meghan (Koczak) and their 16 month old son Ryker, Ryan has gotten through countless ups and down. On Monday, March 9th, Ryan became faced with another obstacle when he unexpectedly suffered a hemorrhagic stroke. Meghan, has been by his side and supporting him every step of the way.

Ryan’s battle began in 2012 when he was diagnosed with a Synovial Sarcoma in his left shoulder after being misdiagnosed as a lipoma. In 2013, he was initially treated with surgery and chemotherapy and received an all clear for a little over a year. In 2015, Ryan’s battle returned when he was diagnosed with metastasis to his lungs. He went through several clinical trials which initially helped, until unfortunately, he stopped responding to treatment. Between 2017 and 2019, more metastasis were found and he began new medication and underwent a round of radiation.

This past summer, Ryan experienced a seizure at home which ultimately lead to the finding of multiple metastasis to his brain.  He immediately underwent a craniotomy followed by gamma knife surgery. With the support of his family, Ryan has fought each one of these obstacles with so much strength and positivity.

Since March 9th, Ryan and Meghan have been fighting their most difficult battle yet.  While Ryan is moving towards the healing and rehabilitation stage, there are many uncertainties that remain. He will face months of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Rehab is a very long and difficult road and it is not known when Ryan will be able to return to work, return to driving, or even return to home. He has endured numerous surgeries, rounds of chemotherapy/radiation, went through clinical trials, experienced a seizure, and now a hemmorhagic stroke that has completely halted his life. Meghan has been supporting and caring for Ryan while also caring for Ryker at home. They are all now facing their most difficult road.

The Wheelers have been faced with more challenges and obstacles than one family should have to endure. There will be financial battles to come regarding medical care and adaptations that will need to be done through the course of Ryan’s rehabilitation and to allow Ryan to return home. Sending love, thoughts, and prayers and any financial support towards the Wheeler Family would be so appreciated to help make this unimaginably difficult time easier for them. At this time, we ask please give Ryan the time he needs to focus on healing.

With love and thanks!
Lisa Koczak