Waiting for a New Heart: Ryan’s Road to Recovery

If you know Ryan Bailey, you already know—he’s the kind of person who leads with his heart, is the first to crack a joke, and is the pillar of strength for many. He’s a father, a devoted professor, a talented artist, a loyal friend, and above all, a fighter. This is Ryan’s marathon. And right now, he’s running it with everything he’s got—toward a second chance at life.

On February 10th, what started as a normal work day ended in emergency surgery when Ryan suffered a massive heart attack. Within 24 hours, he had a stent procedure, a triple bypass, and an attempted repair for a hole in his heart. When the repair wasn’t successful, Ryan was airlifted to Toronto General Hospital in critical condition. He spent a month in a medically induced coma—intubated, on feeding tubes, and supported by life-sustaining machines. For many, this would have been the end of the story. But not for Ryan. Minute by minute, hour by hour—Ryan fought. And in mid-March, he woke up.

When Ryan opened his eyes, his journey truly began. He had to relearn how to breathe, speak, and eat on his own. Slowly, day by day, he did just that. And true to form, he did it with determination, humility, and an unrelenting will to return to the people he loves.

Today, Ryan is living with a 3cm hole in his heart and requires a BiVAD—an external mechanical device that acts as his heart—while he awaits a transplant. Every day he is undergoing rigorous physiotherapy, preparing his body to receive a new heart. The wait could be weeks or even months, and Ryan will remain at the hospital until discharged after his transplant. But Ryan is working hard every moment along the way, with a "fierce determination" (his words!) to be ready when that call comes.

Recovery from a heart transplant is incredibly complex—and costly. In Ontario, anti-rejection medications (immunosuppressants) alone can cost between $10,000 to $14,000 a year. On top of that, Ryan will need ongoing physiotherapy, regular medical follow-ups, and home modifications to support his recovery.

Your donation will go directly toward helping Ryan access these critical resources. It will help cover the cost of life-saving medications, the therapies that will help keep him mobile, and the changes needed at home to support his new way of life. Donations will also assist with daily living expenses as Ryan works toward regaining his independence and returning to the classroom to do what he loves—teaching. Every contribution—no matter the amount—will make a difference.

Ryan is a walking miracle. The doctors advised that most people don’t make it off the table after the severity of his initial heart attack—but Ryan did. Now, with a community behind him, he’s moving toward healing, strength, and hope for the future.

Thank you for supporting Ryan and helping give him a second chance at life.