On February 22, 2025, Aaron Ryback's life changed in an instant.

During a hockey game, Aaron went head-first into the boards, suffering a severe anterior shoulder dislocation and traumatic injury to his brachial plexus - the network of nerves that controls the arm and hand. In seconds, he lost function of his arm and hand, leaving them paralyzed for nearly six months.

In August 2025, Aaron underwent his first major nerve surgery in hopes of regaining function. Since then, he has slowly begun to regain movement, but the road ahead remains long and uncertain. His recovery requires countless hours of physical and occupational therapy, frequent specialist visits, and additional surgeries. He has been told his arm will never fully return to normal.

The mental and emotional toll has been just as challenging. Aaron continues to navigate PTSD, anxiety, and depression as a result of the accident.

During this time, Aaron found a lifeline in Penny - his service dog. Rescued from Second Chance Rescue in Charlotte, NC, Penny has been training alongside Aaron since July in Fayetteville, NC, and plays a vital role in helping him manage both the physical and mental challenges of daily life.

Outside of hockey, Aaron worked as a PGA Golf Professional. Unfortunately, due to his injury, continuing either his hockey or golf career is unlikely. The loss of income, combined with mounting medical bills, therapy costs, service dog training, travel for appointments, and student loans, has created a significant financial burden.

Aaron is fighting every day to rebuild his life, but he cannot do it alone.

We are asking the hockey and golf communities to give Aaron a hand up, not a handout. Your support helps cover essential expenses and gives Aaron the opportunity to regain independence and move forward into this next chapter with dignity and strength.

Let’s rally around Aaron and remind him he’s not facing this journey alone.