★Harper Lee is a 5 year old little girl that was diagnosed with stage 3 parameningeal Rhabdomyosarcoma on January 12th 2023. (Parameningeal is relating to the tumor developing in her sinuses).
Approximately 17,000 kids are diagnosed with cancer each year with roughly 400 of them being diagnosed with this aggressive form of cancer.
A few weeks prior to her diagnosis, Harper was experiencing fatigue and stomach pain. Unfortunately there was no connection able to be made to a tumor developing in her head, until her eyes involuntarily crossed on January 10th. She was immediately rushed to the emergency room.
Harper is currently undergoing week 7 out of 11 of chemotherapy. Upon completion of chemotherapy she will undergo 5.5 weeks of proton beam radiation therapy.
Ryan’s foundation is able to help Harper and her family by providing gas and expense cards for their travel to and from radiation.
Please pray for Harper and her family. God bless.★
Approximately 17,000 kids are diagnosed with cancer each year with roughly 400 of them being diagnosed with this aggressive form of cancer.
A few weeks prior to her diagnosis, Harper was experiencing fatigue and stomach pain. Unfortunately there was no connection able to be made to a tumor developing in her head, until her eyes involuntarily crossed on January 10th. She was immediately rushed to the emergency room.
Harper is currently undergoing week 7 out of 11 of chemotherapy. Upon completion of chemotherapy she will undergo 5.5 weeks of proton beam radiation therapy.
Ryan’s foundation is able to help Harper and her family by providing gas and expense cards for their travel to and from radiation.
Please pray for Harper and her family. God bless.★
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★Ryan’s Foundation was honored to finally meet Baby Hazel Grace after 108 days in the hospital. The 10-13 community came together today to help the Darling family and we were blessed to be a part of it! God bless this family and Baby Hazel!
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★Meet Hazel Grace Darling, born on July 28th at Vassar Brothers Hospital. Shortly after being born, mom and dad were told that baby Hazel has racheoesophageal fistula, where her esophagus and trachea are attached. Due to her condition, Baby Hazel would need surgery immediately. She was airlifted to Maria Fareri Children's Hospital, a member of the WMCHealth for surgery and is currently still there.
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★A letter we received from a family whose 5 year old little girl suffers from Hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, cerebral palsy, and Congenital hypotonia.
"Dear Ryan McElroy Foundation,
We want to sincerely thank you for the equipment and supplies purchased for Eliana! All of it has been put to good use and she uses it daily! Our family is genuinely grateful. This is helping strengthen her core, her coordination, improve her fine motor skills, and assist with her sensory deficit. We are so appreciative and feel truly blessed to have been chosen to receive this grant! We cannot thank you enough for all you have done for our family".
God Bless your family and Eliana!
"Dear Ryan McElroy Foundation,
We want to sincerely thank you for the equipment and supplies purchased for Eliana! All of it has been put to good use and she uses it daily! Our family is genuinely grateful. This is helping strengthen her core, her coordination, improve her fine motor skills, and assist with her sensory deficit. We are so appreciative and feel truly blessed to have been chosen to receive this grant! We cannot thank you enough for all you have done for our family".
God Bless your family and Eliana!
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★Today, Ryan’s foundation along with DC 10-13 Foundation of the Hudson Valley bought and installed an automatic generator for Anna; Hope for Anna. We helped Anna back in 2018 with a micro silk tub.
Anna is from Ulster County who suffers from a rare disorder called harlequin icythosis. Harlequin ichthyosis is a severe genetic disorder that mainly affects the skin. Infants with this condition are born with very hard, thick skin covering most of their bodies. Temperature controlled air is pivotal for Anna’s skin and a generator is necessary whether it is extreme heat or cold winters. Thank you to all those involved: Millbrook Electric, Z-3 Consultants, DC 10-13 Foundation and Bill Riley, Jeremy Busolt and George Busolt for the install. |
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★Everyone meet Leo! He has been at Blythdales Children Hospital since birth. Four and half years later, he is finally home. Ryan’s Foundation bought and delivered a generator today! Leo is so medically dependent, a generator is pivotal to his health and safety.
Please watch Leo’s story and thank you to everyone who continues to support and donate to help children living in our community with life threatening illnesses
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Bd3XN3LGVIc&feature=youtu.be
Please watch Leo’s story and thank you to everyone who continues to support and donate to help children living in our community with life threatening illnesses
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Bd3XN3LGVIc&feature=youtu.be
★9 year old Devin from Craagsmoor, NY suffers from Spinal Muscular Atrophy. In order to get in and out of the car, the family needs a wheelchair ramp because he of his limited motion. Ryan's Foundation was able to purchase and install the ramp for the car so Devin has freedom to explore and travel with his family and siblings.
★4 year old Violet from Poughkeepsie suffers from cerebral palsy, spastic quadriplegia, and myoclonus. She is very limited in mobility and function. Ryan's Foundation was able to purchase her a rifton tricycle so she can move around, go outside, and not feel limited. Please pray for Violet and her family.
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★Everyone meet Asher! Asher is 10, turning 11 tomorrow and suffers from DiGeorge Syndrome, CP, Seizures, Hydrocephalus, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
Ryan's Foundation was able to purchase him a therapeutic scooter to increase his mobility and enjoy the outdoors! Please wish Asher a very happy birthday tomorrow and pray for his health and safety! God Bless, Asher! |
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★3 year old, Jionni suffers from cerebral palsy, developmental delays, asthma, and hydrocephalus (fluid in the brain). He is currently at Maria Fareri Children's Hospital, a member of the WMCHealth Network. Unfortunately, Jionni cannot walk long distances and the family requested a new stroller for him. A brand new stroller was bought and delivered to them.
★4 year old, James suffers from epilepsy, apraxia, and nonverbal autism and cannot communicate with his teachers, friends and family members. The foundation purchased him an iPad to help communicate with his peers and family better, in and out of school.
★4 year old, Arianna suffers from Spastic Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy, Gastronomy tube dependent, progressive encephalopathy, metabolic disorder, G-tube dependent and Epilepsy. The family was able to get Arianna a customized stroller through National Seating & Mobility, but unfortunately, was not completely covered under insurance. Ryan's Foundation paid the remainder of the balance, as well as paid for parking receipts for their overnight stays at NewYork-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital.
★Ryan's Foundation paid back rent for a family living in Poughkeepsie, NY. Baby Emma, who is just 2 months old, has been at Westchester Medical since birth with a Anoxic Brain Injury. Anoxic Brain Injury is lack adequate blood supply to the brain resulting in lack of oxygen to the brain.
Please pray for Emma and her family; Pray she can recover and be released from the hospital with her family.
Please pray for Emma and her family; Pray she can recover and be released from the hospital with her family.
★Ryan's Foundation just paid a final termination gas and electric bill for a family living in Middletown, NY. The family's 7 month old child has hepatoblastoma, a rare tumor that originates in the liver. Currently, the child is at Maria Ferari Children's Hospital At Weschester Medical Center
We will do whatever it takes to help that child and family. The last thing the family is thinking about is a bill when they are not even home. Please pray for this family and child!
We will do whatever it takes to help that child and family. The last thing the family is thinking about is a bill when they are not even home. Please pray for this family and child!
★Ryan's Foundation just helped a family in Kingston, NY whose one a half year old son, Ethan suffers from Pica. Pica is a compulsive eating disorder in which people eat nonfood items. Pica often occurs with mental health disorders associated with impaired functioning (e.g., intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia) or Iron-deficiency anemia and malnutrition.
Ethan's disorder has him eating his bedding; sheets, pillow cases, comforter. Obviously, this is a choking hazard, especially for a one and a half year old, but can cause long term digestion issues which can be life threatening.
Ryan's Foundation paid for bedding that is made specifically for people with this disorder. We hope this makes a difference in Ethan and his families life.
God Bless!
Ethan's disorder has him eating his bedding; sheets, pillow cases, comforter. Obviously, this is a choking hazard, especially for a one and a half year old, but can cause long term digestion issues which can be life threatening.
Ryan's Foundation paid for bedding that is made specifically for people with this disorder. We hope this makes a difference in Ethan and his families life.
God Bless!
★Ryan's Foundation has gained two guardian angels. Please Pray for Kaiden, who suffered from sickle cell disease. We helped pay the family's mortgage many months.
Please pray for Emma, who suffered from renal cell sarcoma. Ryan's Foundation donated at a local fundraiser, as well as gas cards as the family was traveling to and from Boston for treatment.
Please keep both families in your thoughts and prayers. God bless all our angels; they are the true heroes.
Please pray for Emma, who suffered from renal cell sarcoma. Ryan's Foundation donated at a local fundraiser, as well as gas cards as the family was traveling to and from Boston for treatment.
Please keep both families in your thoughts and prayers. God bless all our angels; they are the true heroes.
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★Please pray for Kyshon. Kyshon has a Ependymoma brain tumor and has been in treatment at
Maria Fareri Children's Hospital for years. He has relapsed multiple times and after his last relapse he was getting treatment at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center on a trial. This past weekend, Ryan’s Foundation was able to drop off a check at a small local fundraiser the family was having. The money raised is going to go towards a wheelchair accessible van for the family. Please pray for Kyshon and his family |
★Say hi to Chelsea in her new Medical Bath Lift! Eight year old Chelsea was born with craniosynostosis multiple and so far, has had 43 surgeries. Craniosynostosis is a rare type of multisuture synostosis, in which more than one suture (joint) between a baby’s skull bones fuses too early. This congenital (present at birth) condition causes problems with brain growth and head shape. This is because the head stops growing in the areas where the sutures have fused, and expands abnormally in other areas.
Ryan's Foundation has previously helped with the families mortgage, and just recently purchased this bath lift to make her bath's more manageable for her and her family.
Keep Chelsea and her family in your thoughts and prayers everyday and don't take for granted the little things in life!
God Bless!
Ryan's Foundation has previously helped with the families mortgage, and just recently purchased this bath lift to make her bath's more manageable for her and her family.
Keep Chelsea and her family in your thoughts and prayers everyday and don't take for granted the little things in life!
God Bless!
★Ryan's Foundation just helped two families living in the Mid-Hudson Family. A family living in Poughkeepsie had their baby at just 30 weeks old. Born with multiple complications, including possible sickle cell, Ryan's Foundation provided a gift card to help with diapers, wipes, and formula.
Another family living in New Windsor, their 12 year old boy is battling Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare cancer found in the soft tissue or muscle tissue. Ryan's Foundation provided a gift card to help with travel expenses to
Children's Hospital At Montefiore as he begins his treatment.
Please pray for both of these families and the heroes fighting.
Another family living in New Windsor, their 12 year old boy is battling Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare cancer found in the soft tissue or muscle tissue. Ryan's Foundation provided a gift card to help with travel expenses to
Children's Hospital At Montefiore as he begins his treatment.
Please pray for both of these families and the heroes fighting.
★Ryan's Foundation just helped a family living in Saugerties, NY whose two year old daughter, Olivia has Sacral Agenisis; incomplete legs, missing knees, missing hips and hip joint, clubbed feet, and missing pelvis. Just in her two short years of life, she has had three surgeries for three different clefts. The family will be traveling to Shrinners Hospital in Philadelphia for surgery in October. Ryan's Foundation sent a gift card to the family to cover gas, tolls, food, and hotel stay.
Please keep this family and little Olivia in your thoughts and prayers while they travel, during surgery, and post surgery.
Thank you to everyone who donates to Ryan's Foundation; you are the reason why this family can make this possible for their daughter.
Please keep this family and little Olivia in your thoughts and prayers while they travel, during surgery, and post surgery.
Thank you to everyone who donates to Ryan's Foundation; you are the reason why this family can make this possible for their daughter.
★A very special project happened this past weekend for a family and their 3 year old son, Mikey. When we first met Michael, he was at Blythedale Children's Hospital and is ventilator and oxygen dependent. Mikey was not home once since birth and that became Ryans Foundation’s goal. Last summer, Ryan’s Foundation provided the family with an automatic generator, in order for Mikey to come home and be oxygen dependent without any worry.
It then became a goal of so many amazing volunteers and board members to provide Mikey with a clean finished yard that he can one day play in, as any child should. With the help of so many, they regraded, supplied and installed new topsoil, with hydro seeding making his yard safe and playable.
We would not have been able to do this project without the help of all the people listed below in honor of Ryan’s Foundation:
Very special thank you to Amaxx, Inc.and Pat Kehoe for making this happen. Along with Shane Deehan, Intercounty Paving Company, Inc. Alley's Agway, Barto Landscaping LLC, JTI Auto Repair, Pawlings Family Quîck Stop, T&A Trucking, Kevin Kehoe, American Pump Service, Jeremy Busolt, MOJOCO, Misfits BBQ, and Henry Schaber.
We would not be able to do anything without the help and support of so many amazing people. God bless you all, God bless this family and so many children in need.
It then became a goal of so many amazing volunteers and board members to provide Mikey with a clean finished yard that he can one day play in, as any child should. With the help of so many, they regraded, supplied and installed new topsoil, with hydro seeding making his yard safe and playable.
We would not have been able to do this project without the help of all the people listed below in honor of Ryan’s Foundation:
Very special thank you to Amaxx, Inc.and Pat Kehoe for making this happen. Along with Shane Deehan, Intercounty Paving Company, Inc. Alley's Agway, Barto Landscaping LLC, JTI Auto Repair, Pawlings Family Quîck Stop, T&A Trucking, Kevin Kehoe, American Pump Service, Jeremy Busolt, MOJOCO, Misfits BBQ, and Henry Schaber.
We would not be able to do anything without the help and support of so many amazing people. God bless you all, God bless this family and so many children in need.
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★In the beginning of May, Heaven gained another beautiful Angel. Just 9 years old, this child fought with bravery and honor and will forever be remembered as a fighter. Ryan’s foundation with Hufcut Funeral Home took care of all the arrangements for this child.
Please pray for this family, all the children fighting, and all the guardians angels we have watching over them.
Please pray for this family, all the children fighting, and all the guardians angels we have watching over them.
★Ryan's Foundation helped two families this past week;
A family from Patterson who unfortunately, has been in these shoes before. Nine years ago, their first son was diagnosed with leukemia and Beat it, but now they are going through the same thing with their eleven year old son. The family had a generator, but it was not hooked up or running. So, Ryan's Foundation paid for and set up the automatic generator at their home. There should be no worries of losing power when your child is sick.
Second family we helped is from Wappingers Falls. Their son is just two years old with sickle cell disease and had a haplo bone marrow transplant. We helped pay for their T-Mobile bill and Wells Fargo car payment.
Our goal is to make a difference in the life of the child and the family and to never say NO. God bless these families.
A family from Patterson who unfortunately, has been in these shoes before. Nine years ago, their first son was diagnosed with leukemia and Beat it, but now they are going through the same thing with their eleven year old son. The family had a generator, but it was not hooked up or running. So, Ryan's Foundation paid for and set up the automatic generator at their home. There should be no worries of losing power when your child is sick.
Second family we helped is from Wappingers Falls. Their son is just two years old with sickle cell disease and had a haplo bone marrow transplant. We helped pay for their T-Mobile bill and Wells Fargo car payment.
Our goal is to make a difference in the life of the child and the family and to never say NO. God bless these families.
★Ryan's Foundation helped a family from Clinton Corners who has been battling for quite a while. Their son, Daniel has been fighting cancer for a few years and underwent a bone marrow transplant. Due to complications, Daniel has been wheelchair bound and home bound for a year and on life support for several months. After having another major surgery, Daniel has been able to get out of the house and try to stand. One of the bigger safety issues has been the ramp leading to their front door; the only way for Daniel to get in and out of the house. The ramp was unsafe and frankly falling apart. Ryan's Foundation knew something had to be done. After speaking with the family and a local contractor, Ryan's Foundation was able to get a brand new ramp built for Daniel. God Bless this family and Daniel; keep fighting and never give up!
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★Ryan's Foundation helped two families today. A family from Middletown NY whose 9 year old suffers from sickle cell disease. The child has been in the hospital since November of 2018. The day before Thanksgiving of 2019, the child was discharged and able to go home, after being in the hospital for an entire year. Unfortunately, the child was readmitted yesterday. Ryan's Foundation is going to pay the family's mortgage.
The second family helped is from Walden, NY whose 8 year old child has Acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Ryan's Foundation is going to pay for their rent.
Our mission to help these families with whatever they need, while their child fights. Please pray for these families.
The second family helped is from Walden, NY whose 8 year old child has Acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Ryan's Foundation is going to pay for their rent.
Our mission to help these families with whatever they need, while their child fights. Please pray for these families.
★Ryan's Foundation just helped a family from Highland Falls whose 16 year old daughter, Nikole suffers from chordoma. "Chordoma is a rare type of cancerous tumor that can occur anywhere along the spine, from the base of the skull to the tailbone. Chordomas grow slowly, gradually extending into the bone and soft tissue around them" The family stayed in Boston for their daughter to receive radiation. Ryan's Foundation helped pay for their stay at Christopher's Haven, "A home for kids when cancer hits home" in Boston, MA from August to October. Let's continue to pray for this family and Nikole as she continues to fight.
★This past week, Ryan's Foundation bought and installed a generator for a local family living in Dover Plains, NY. Their eight year old son has epilepsy, Fahr's syndrome, atrial septal defect, and is g-tube dependent. A generator is essential to this child's health and well-being. God bless this child and family.
★Ryan's Foundation helped two families this past week. One family, living in Wassaic has been traveling from their home to Mt. Sinai Hospital in NYC since their child has been diagnosed with leukemia. Their cable was shut off due to lack of payment during this time. Ryan's Foundation paid their past due and current bill in order for the child to have time at home to be a 'kid'. Something as simple as cable can make a world of difference for a child.
Another family helped this week is from Spring Valley whose child, 12 years old, was diagnosed with leukemia in May of 2019. Prior to her diagnosis, her bed broke. Now, thankfully the child is being discharged and needs a new bed. Ryan's Foundation purchased a new bed to be delivered to the home. A bed is important to anyone, but when coming home from the hospital, your own bed is so significant.
Another family helped this week is from Spring Valley whose child, 12 years old, was diagnosed with leukemia in May of 2019. Prior to her diagnosis, her bed broke. Now, thankfully the child is being discharged and needs a new bed. Ryan's Foundation purchased a new bed to be delivered to the home. A bed is important to anyone, but when coming home from the hospital, your own bed is so significant.
★Ryan's Foundation just helped a local family from Spring Valley, NY whose twelve year old child has been fighting APL Leukemia since May of 2019. She was set to go home, until she was then treated for Aspergillus, which is a common mold. Because she has a weakened immune system, breathing in Aspergillus spores caused a line infection. Mold was found in certain parts of the home, therefore Infection Control recommended HEPA Filters.
Ryan's Foundation purchased three large free standing HEPA Odor Fighting, Air Purifiers with Ion Cluster Technology and Filters in order for this child to go home, safely in a clean environment.
Within a day, these filters were purchased and delivered and now the child can go home and continue to keep fighting and never give up.
Ryan's Foundation purchased three large free standing HEPA Odor Fighting, Air Purifiers with Ion Cluster Technology and Filters in order for this child to go home, safely in a clean environment.
Within a day, these filters were purchased and delivered and now the child can go home and continue to keep fighting and never give up.
★A local family from Stormville has a three-year-old son, Michael who has yet to be home from the hospital. Currently at Blythedale Hospital in Valhalla, Michael has Periventricular leukomalacia, Craniosynostosis, chronic respiratory failure, Bronchopulmonary dysplasia, tracheostomy and gastrostomy dependent, and ventilator and oxygen dependent.
Mikey, just three years old, has never been home. One of the biggest obstacles in bringing Mikey home was ventilator and oxygen dependent, therefore needing an automatic generator.
It became Ryan’s Foundation’s mission to bring Mikey home. Within a day of Ryan’s Foundation receiving the application from the social worker, phone calls were made for estimates, and an automatic generator was bought. Within a week, the generator was delivered, installed, and ready for use for Mikey to come home.
The generosity of our community and supporters is what makes this and every story so special. Enormous thanks to Pat Kehoe and Jason Maxwell of Amaxx Excavation Inc., Gary Tiso of Tiso & Associates Inc, Durkin Propane, Rick Colyard and Gary Beck of Z3 Consultants, Jeremy Busolt, Jerry Macchia, Mark Muller, Bill Riley, and Brendan Gaughran for all the hard and efficient work they did to bring Mikey home. Thanks to all our continued donors and supporters because without you, we wouldn’t be able to help local families, like Mikey’s.
Mikey, just three years old, has never been home. One of the biggest obstacles in bringing Mikey home was ventilator and oxygen dependent, therefore needing an automatic generator.
It became Ryan’s Foundation’s mission to bring Mikey home. Within a day of Ryan’s Foundation receiving the application from the social worker, phone calls were made for estimates, and an automatic generator was bought. Within a week, the generator was delivered, installed, and ready for use for Mikey to come home.
The generosity of our community and supporters is what makes this and every story so special. Enormous thanks to Pat Kehoe and Jason Maxwell of Amaxx Excavation Inc., Gary Tiso of Tiso & Associates Inc, Durkin Propane, Rick Colyard and Gary Beck of Z3 Consultants, Jeremy Busolt, Jerry Macchia, Mark Muller, Bill Riley, and Brendan Gaughran for all the hard and efficient work they did to bring Mikey home. Thanks to all our continued donors and supporters because without you, we wouldn’t be able to help local families, like Mikey’s.
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★Meet 7-year-old Chelsea. She was born with craniosynostosis multiple and so far, has had 43 surgeries. Craniosynostosis is a rare type of multisuture synostosis, in which more than one suture (joint) between a baby’s skull bones fuses too early. This congenital (present at birth) condition causes problems with brain growth and head shape. This is because the head stops growing in the areas where the sutures have fused, and expands abnormally in other areas.
Chelsea is home schooled and has therapies at home and is nonverbal. Ryan’s Foundation was able to help Chelsea’s family by paying their mortgage. In turn, the family was able to move forward with plans to make Chelsea’s room more accessible. Ryan’s Foundation will do whatever it takes to save the child, the family, and to live out our mission to never say no. God Bless Chelsea and her family. |
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★"Sometimes, real superheroes live in the hearts of small children fighting battles"..
Ryan's Foundation lost an child last week, but gained an angel. Two and a half year old, Kordelia gained her wings. Ryan's Foundation paid for the funeral expenses for the family living in Hyde Park, NY.
May her family remain strong and know that Kordelia is no longer in pain, but at peace.
Ryan's Foundation lost an child last week, but gained an angel. Two and a half year old, Kordelia gained her wings. Ryan's Foundation paid for the funeral expenses for the family living in Hyde Park, NY.
May her family remain strong and know that Kordelia is no longer in pain, but at peace.
★Last week, Ryan's Foundation was able to help a local Pawling Family. Joshua, age 14, was diagnosed with Hypoplastic Left-Heart Syndrome before he was even born. He has gone through 10 major surgeries, including his last one, a heart transplant.
Many of us may know Joshua as a volunteer at the Pawling Fire Dept, or helping in the kitchen at Iron & Wine Restaurant. Joshua is a fighter.
Ryan's Foundation paid for a water filtration system in their house to remove hazardous pollutants, making it safe for Joshua and his immune system, all installed by American Pump Service.
We will continue to do whatever it takes to help children like Joshua and continue our mission to never say no to a child in need.
Many of us may know Joshua as a volunteer at the Pawling Fire Dept, or helping in the kitchen at Iron & Wine Restaurant. Joshua is a fighter.
Ryan's Foundation paid for a water filtration system in their house to remove hazardous pollutants, making it safe for Joshua and his immune system, all installed by American Pump Service.
We will continue to do whatever it takes to help children like Joshua and continue our mission to never say no to a child in need.
★Kayla from Monroe, NY is fighting through her third bout of leukemia. After have a transplant, she is fighting through treatment for the third time in her short life. Ryan's Foundation is paying for two months of car insurance for the family.
★Twelve year old Ryan from Walden, NY was just diagnosed with sickle cell disease and is going to be undergoing a bone marrow transplant. Ryan's Foundation paid the mortgage for the family, one less burden for the single mother to worry about.
★Ryan's Foundation helped pay the mortgage of a local family, living in Hopewell Junction. Their daughter, is suffering from Craniosynostosis, Crogan syndrome, and Arnold Chiari malformation. With very little mobility, getting outside of the house is almost impossible, therefore paying for their mortgage was just a simple relief we could take off their shoulders.
★Please take a few moments to read this letter written by a mom who didn't know where to turn and Ryan's Foundation was able to help:
"Dennis Patrick Gillespie was born four weeks early on July 12, 2004. Upon his arrival all seemed well. We were told he was healthy as they cleaned him, weighed him and whisked him away for his first bath. Not long after that he was moved to the pediatric ICU and the doctor explained that something was not right. After his bath he had turned blue and his color was not returning. A few hours later we met Dr. Michael Snyder, a pediatric cardiologist who informed that our son was born with a complex congenital heart defect called Tetralogy of Fallot which causes oxygen-poor blood to flow out of the heart and into the rest of the body. Our newborn would need immediate open-heart surgery. By the time Dennis was 7 months old, he had endured three open heart surgeries and numerous procedures.
Previous to Dennis’ arrival, I was working as an elementary teacher in NYC. Hindsight really is 20/20 because when I first started and filled out the paperwork for my health insurance, I remember there being an emergency rider that I didn’t think was necessary as I was young and healthy at the time. Big mistake! Fast forward to the medical bills piling up, harassing phone calls from bill collectors, and my anxiety increasing daily. Edward, husband and father extraordinaire, had always been the calming influence in my life and now was no different. “They can’t get blood from a stone,” he told me. “All that matters is his continued good health, if we have to pay them $25.00 a month for the rest of our lives then so be it.” He was right. We sat down and began to look at where we could cut back in our budget in the hopes of arranging a monthly payment that both we and the hospital and could live with.
I had joined a gym recently with the best of intentions. I would work off all my baby weight and be back to my old self in no time! Of course, this was before our world had been turned upside down. I also knew that breaking a gym contract would not be easy. I walked in holding numerous folders stuffed with bills and letters under one arm and my beautiful 9-month-old son in the other. The woman behind the counter did not break into the forgiving smile I imagined she would after I babbled at length about why I could no longer pay my gym membership. Instead she simply asked me to wait there. She returned with a rather large gentleman. I was confused. He introduced himself and his coworker as Chip and Judy McElroy. “We run a foundation” he told me, “in memory of our son, Ryan.” I didn’t understand. Who were these people? Why was I crying? After listening to Chip share Ryan’s story, he said, “We will take care of everything.” And they did. It’s as simple as that. It’s hard for me, even now almost 12 years later, to put into words how these amazing people changed not only our lives but our perspective. The Ryan McElroy Children’s Cancer foundation will ALWAYS be a gift from God to our family; and we are now, as we were then, forever grateful."
The Gillespie Family
"Dennis Patrick Gillespie was born four weeks early on July 12, 2004. Upon his arrival all seemed well. We were told he was healthy as they cleaned him, weighed him and whisked him away for his first bath. Not long after that he was moved to the pediatric ICU and the doctor explained that something was not right. After his bath he had turned blue and his color was not returning. A few hours later we met Dr. Michael Snyder, a pediatric cardiologist who informed that our son was born with a complex congenital heart defect called Tetralogy of Fallot which causes oxygen-poor blood to flow out of the heart and into the rest of the body. Our newborn would need immediate open-heart surgery. By the time Dennis was 7 months old, he had endured three open heart surgeries and numerous procedures.
Previous to Dennis’ arrival, I was working as an elementary teacher in NYC. Hindsight really is 20/20 because when I first started and filled out the paperwork for my health insurance, I remember there being an emergency rider that I didn’t think was necessary as I was young and healthy at the time. Big mistake! Fast forward to the medical bills piling up, harassing phone calls from bill collectors, and my anxiety increasing daily. Edward, husband and father extraordinaire, had always been the calming influence in my life and now was no different. “They can’t get blood from a stone,” he told me. “All that matters is his continued good health, if we have to pay them $25.00 a month for the rest of our lives then so be it.” He was right. We sat down and began to look at where we could cut back in our budget in the hopes of arranging a monthly payment that both we and the hospital and could live with.
I had joined a gym recently with the best of intentions. I would work off all my baby weight and be back to my old self in no time! Of course, this was before our world had been turned upside down. I also knew that breaking a gym contract would not be easy. I walked in holding numerous folders stuffed with bills and letters under one arm and my beautiful 9-month-old son in the other. The woman behind the counter did not break into the forgiving smile I imagined she would after I babbled at length about why I could no longer pay my gym membership. Instead she simply asked me to wait there. She returned with a rather large gentleman. I was confused. He introduced himself and his coworker as Chip and Judy McElroy. “We run a foundation” he told me, “in memory of our son, Ryan.” I didn’t understand. Who were these people? Why was I crying? After listening to Chip share Ryan’s story, he said, “We will take care of everything.” And they did. It’s as simple as that. It’s hard for me, even now almost 12 years later, to put into words how these amazing people changed not only our lives but our perspective. The Ryan McElroy Children’s Cancer foundation will ALWAYS be a gift from God to our family; and we are now, as we were then, forever grateful."
The Gillespie Family
★Being miles away from home, in another state, with your child is not easy, and certainly not any easier during the Holiday Season. A family living in the Mid Hudson Valley, whose daughter underwent a liver transplant, is currently still in Boston due to severe rejection and ineffective steroids.
To make this is a little less stressful, Ryan's Foundation has paid and will continue to pay for the hotel accommodations for as long as the family needs while in Boston with their daughter.
Pray for this family and their baby girl, for a healthy recovery and to be home during this Holiday Season. God Bless
To make this is a little less stressful, Ryan's Foundation has paid and will continue to pay for the hotel accommodations for as long as the family needs while in Boston with their daughter.
Pray for this family and their baby girl, for a healthy recovery and to be home during this Holiday Season. God Bless
★A family we have been helping for several years whose son suffers from Hodgkins Lymphoma is going in for radiation therapy for 3 weeks. Ryan's Foundation just paid their Central Hudson bill, as well as gas cards to make their commute from Newburgh to Westchester that much easier. We are praying for this family and child. Keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
★Meet Jonathan. A 16 year old boy who was diagnosed with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita, Pierre-Robin Syndrome, and was born with multiple severe skeletal deformities and severe Respiratory Distress Syndrome.
Jonathan's doctor recommended that he continued his physical therapy exercises outside of PT, which would require an Adaptive Tricycle.
Over the summer, Ryan's Foundation was able to provide Jonathan with this Tricycle, in his favorite color blue, so he can move towards ambulating more independently and become less dependent on assistive equipment.
God Bless Jonathan and his family!
Jonathan's doctor recommended that he continued his physical therapy exercises outside of PT, which would require an Adaptive Tricycle.
Over the summer, Ryan's Foundation was able to provide Jonathan with this Tricycle, in his favorite color blue, so he can move towards ambulating more independently and become less dependent on assistive equipment.
God Bless Jonathan and his family!
★A family living in Poughquag NY has a 4 year old little girl recently diagnosed with hepatoblastoma and has to have a liver transplant. They are traveling to Boston this weekend to see about the prognosis. Ryan’s foundation paid for their hotel stay while in Boston. One less worry and financial concern the family has to deal with. Ryan’s foundation will do whatever it takes, at any hour, at any moment, because every second matters.
God bless this family and little girl and know we are here, no matter.
God bless this family and little girl and know we are here, no matter.
★ Ryan's Foundation helped a family, living right in Poughquag NY, whose 3 year old daughter was just diagnosed with Hepatoblastoma. After medical bills started coming in, the family's mortgage was just one of the many bills they couldn't afford, but could not not pay it. Ryan's Foundation was able to pay the family's mortgage bill; one less thing for the family to worry about.
★Ryan's Foundation just helped a single mother living in Poughkeespie whose child just relapsed after being diagnosed with a sever brain tumor several years ago. The child went into surgery last week. Please pray for a healthy and speedy recovery. The family, who was on food stamps, was cut off, for unknown reasons. Ryan's Foundation sent a gift card to help the mother with groceries and necessities for her and her child. Please keep this mom and child in your thoughts and prayers
★Sometimes, insurance companies can go only do and cover so much. Sixteen year old from Walden, NY is suffering from Hodgkins Lymphoma. After chemotherapy and radiation, she had to proceed with physical therapy to fully be able to recover and have the motion and strength she once had. With session after session, insurance could no longer cover the physical therapy for the child. With no where near completion of treatment, we could not let this be the end. Ryan's Foundation helped pay for the physical therapy in order for her to fully recover.
Life is too short, each day goes by too fast, continue to pray and hope for a new day.
Please keep her and her family in your thoughts and prayers. Ryan's Foundation will do whatever it takes to help save the life of that child.
Life is too short, each day goes by too fast, continue to pray and hope for a new day.
Please keep her and her family in your thoughts and prayers. Ryan's Foundation will do whatever it takes to help save the life of that child.
★ Today Ryan’s foundation helped 3 year old La’Nova. La’Nova was born premature and her lungs were not fully developed, making it hard for her to breathe on her own.
At 3 months old, she was given a tracheostomy to breathe reliably and a g-tube in her belly for feeding.
At 2 years old, she began to learn sign language. Now at 3 years old, she has physical restrictions and is completely non verbal.
La‘Nova is scheduled to have reconstructive surgery on her airways and eyes at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
We hope and pray for La’Nova and her family as they travel and prepare for surgery. Whatever we can do to help save the life of that child and in this case, help make sure La‘Nova can be trach-free and have a voice.
At 3 months old, she was given a tracheostomy to breathe reliably and a g-tube in her belly for feeding.
At 2 years old, she began to learn sign language. Now at 3 years old, she has physical restrictions and is completely non verbal.
La‘Nova is scheduled to have reconstructive surgery on her airways and eyes at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
We hope and pray for La’Nova and her family as they travel and prepare for surgery. Whatever we can do to help save the life of that child and in this case, help make sure La‘Nova can be trach-free and have a voice.
★ Meet Deskin. He just turned 5 years old. Ryan’s foundation helped Deskin and his family when he was first born by installing an automatic generator in their house. Deskin’s medical equipment is hooked up to the generator, therefore Deskin is never without his medical equipment, with or without power.
On this snowy day, Ryan’s Foundation just received a message from Deskin’s mom, thanking us for the generator as their power just went out. After 5 years, we are so humbled to be able to continue to help this family and continue to give them hope. God bless.
On this snowy day, Ryan’s Foundation just received a message from Deskin’s mom, thanking us for the generator as their power just went out. After 5 years, we are so humbled to be able to continue to help this family and continue to give them hope. God bless.
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★ Ryan's Foundation just paid a Central Hudson Gas and Electric Bill for a family living in Fishkill, NY whose daughter, just eight years old is suffering from Pre–B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. No family should ever have to go without electricity, but especially in a time where the focus is on saving their child's life.
★Ryan’s foundation helped a family living in Poughkeepsie whose twelve year old daughter is suffering from a rare soft tissue sarcome. Our thoughts and prayers are with her and her family
★Ryan's Foundation bought an Adaptive Rifton Tricycle for a sixteen year old boy in Poughkeepsie, NY who is suffering from a multitude of illnesses, including congenital musculoskeletal deformity of the spine. The Tricycle will allow him to continue exercise and movement, as well as independence. Whatever we can do to make a difference, we will.
★Ryan's Foundation purchased two tumble form rolls and a customized Postural Support System for a little boy living in the Mid-Hudson Valley.
★Ryan's Foundation is able to help a single mom whose child is currently suffering from Ewing Sarcoma. Sending a direct check to the mom to help her pay everyday bills, medical bills, is why we do what we do. No one understands the burden of bills until you have medical expenses that you can't keep up with and a child who is fighting for their life.
★Being able to help a single mom, whose child who is currently at Maria Fareri Children's Hospital, is just one of the reasons why we Never Say No. Being able to help her with food and necessities, while her child is fighting, is just one of the reasons why we Never Say No.
★Ryans foundation paid for a car payment for a mother whose child suffers from seizures. Whatever we can do to help relieve the stress and burden for a family, we will do.
★Ryan's Foundation was able to help a family whose 8 month old baby, currently at Maria Fareri Children's Hospital, has Shwachman Diamond Syndrome. The mother needed a new adjustable stroller to try to sit up more and a bumbo seat to enable her to gain strength to sit up more.
Whatever we can do to make a difference in the life of a child and the family.
Whatever we can do to make a difference in the life of a child and the family.
★A beautiful message we received from a mother whose daughter has been fighting with cancer for 4.5 years. We want to be there for the child and family, no matter what. We don't want them to ever worry, question where to turn, or hesitate to ask for help. We are here for you. God bless!
"On January 19, 2013 life as we knew it changed. At the time I never thought it would be a good change. As horrible as it is to hear the words "your child has cancer", this journey has come with a lot of positive outcomes. My daughter continues to fight this beast with the same attitude as she began fighting with, 4.5 years is a long time to keep such a great attitude when things are rough! We have had so many amazing people come out to help us, cooking, fundraising, just being available for whatever and the prayers from near and far have helped us to keep this positive outlook overall. There is one foundation that has stuck by our side from the start and initially reached out to us, we didn't even go to them! The call was something like "We heard the news about your daughter and we would love to help you in any way we possibly can".... well it has been a long 4.5 years but I cannot express how grateful we are and how blessed we feel knowing you are on our side and on the sides of so many families dealing with illnesses. There is no question about it... you guys (your team, family, friends) are truly amazing people who have become the sunshine on our cloudiest days. I don't know when we will be able to "give back" but we sure hope it is a lot sooner than later. Thank you The Ryan McElroy Foundation."
"On January 19, 2013 life as we knew it changed. At the time I never thought it would be a good change. As horrible as it is to hear the words "your child has cancer", this journey has come with a lot of positive outcomes. My daughter continues to fight this beast with the same attitude as she began fighting with, 4.5 years is a long time to keep such a great attitude when things are rough! We have had so many amazing people come out to help us, cooking, fundraising, just being available for whatever and the prayers from near and far have helped us to keep this positive outlook overall. There is one foundation that has stuck by our side from the start and initially reached out to us, we didn't even go to them! The call was something like "We heard the news about your daughter and we would love to help you in any way we possibly can".... well it has been a long 4.5 years but I cannot express how grateful we are and how blessed we feel knowing you are on our side and on the sides of so many families dealing with illnesses. There is no question about it... you guys (your team, family, friends) are truly amazing people who have become the sunshine on our cloudiest days. I don't know when we will be able to "give back" but we sure hope it is a lot sooner than later. Thank you The Ryan McElroy Foundation."
★ Ryan's Foundation will be paying for Physical Therapy for a young girl who just finished radiation. Suffering from Hodgkin's Lymphoma and several weeks of radiation, physical therapy is a pivotal part of recovering from severe leg weakness for her to get through each day. We will do whatever it takes to help that child and the family.
★To be able to help and alleviate any stress for the family with a sick child, is what we are here to do. Being able to pay rent for a mom whose three year old daughter is fighting for her life with medulloblastoma is what we are here for. Anything we can do to help save the life of that child and taken some of the stress of the parent's shoulder is our mission.
★Ryan's Foundation just paid for hotel accommodation and transportation to and from the hospital for a 14 year old girl suffering from Hodgkin's Lymphoma, who is going through three weeks of radiation. Traveling over an hour away was not an option, therefore Ryan's Foundation was able to cover the cost to make sure that child is receiving everything possible to make it through everyday.
★ Ryan's Foundation was able to purchase a TV for a child who is suffering from a brain tumor. Whatever it takes to help that child overcome the day to day struggle and get through everyday is our mission and will never say no.
★Ryan's Foundation just ordered a new mattress and box spring for a family living in Poughkeepsie, NY whose home was unfortunately, infested with bed bugs. This child is suffering from a brain tumor, fighting each day. Whatever we can do for a family in need, we will do.
★Being able to never say no to a family and child with a life threatening illness is our mission. To be able to do whatever we can; financially, physically, emotionally is what Ryan's Foundation does. To never let a parent of a sick child think of the questions; would have, could have, or should have, is our job.
Ryan's Foundation will do whatever it takes to save the life of that child. Today, Ryan's Foundation was able to write a check to a single mom whose daughter has Ewing Sarcoma. Ryan's Foundation is here to try to alleviate that mom of the current medical and non-medical bills pouring in.
Never do we, Ryan's foundation and Ryan's family, want to have a parent worry about what to do next, where to turn, and how to pay for all the expenses. As a parent, your only thoughts should be on your child.
That is where Ryan's Foundation come in.
If you know of a family and child who is suffering from a life threatening illness, please contact us.
Ryan's Foundation will do whatever it takes to save the life of that child. Today, Ryan's Foundation was able to write a check to a single mom whose daughter has Ewing Sarcoma. Ryan's Foundation is here to try to alleviate that mom of the current medical and non-medical bills pouring in.
Never do we, Ryan's foundation and Ryan's family, want to have a parent worry about what to do next, where to turn, and how to pay for all the expenses. As a parent, your only thoughts should be on your child.
That is where Ryan's Foundation come in.
If you know of a family and child who is suffering from a life threatening illness, please contact us.
★Words from a dad whose son, suffering from cancer, has been in Maria Fareri Children's Hospital since Thanksgiving and whom just spoke to Tralee McElroy, Executive Director regarding help and guidance during this time...
"Thank you for your call today, it sometimes feels we're alone and adrift at sea, but to know you are there to help us find the shore, eases my heart & mind. I know there are rough waters ahead for our family, and hopefully we'll get our bearings back soon, to get my son back on course for a better out come for his overall health and wellbeing".
God bless this family, child whom is suffering, and all the children and families fighting everyday. Ryan's foundation is here and will do whatever it takes to help.
"Thank you for your call today, it sometimes feels we're alone and adrift at sea, but to know you are there to help us find the shore, eases my heart & mind. I know there are rough waters ahead for our family, and hopefully we'll get our bearings back soon, to get my son back on course for a better out come for his overall health and wellbeing".
God bless this family, child whom is suffering, and all the children and families fighting everyday. Ryan's foundation is here and will do whatever it takes to help.
★ Ryan's Foundation was able to help pay for car expenses for a mother whose 7 year old boy who is suffering from cancer, traveling back and forth from Fishkill to Maria Ferrari Children's Hospital.
★ Ryan's Foundation just paid for a mortgage bill for a mother and her daughter, living in Poughkeepsie, NY. Her daughter is five years old, suffering and fighting against a brain tumor. We pray for this family and young girl as they battle each day.
★ A mother living in Millbrook, NY lost her husband in a fatal car accident, with two of their young children in the car. Luckily, both survived, but one is suffering with a multitude of life threatening injuries. A therapeutic hot tub was recommended upon the doctors and physical therapists, in order to stimulate the little girl's bones and muscles. Ryan's Foundation contributed towards their goal of receiving this hot tub for this tough two year old fighting for her life. We will continue to fight until this little girl has the hot tub she badly deserves and needs.
★ A four year old little boy with sickle cell disease is on a compounded medicine and needed it shipped to his house immediately because the family does not have the means of transportation to get to the pharmacy. Within a matter of minutes, Ryan's Foundation was able to pay for the medicine to be shipped directly to their house for the child. We hope to take that little burden of stress off of the parent's shoulders and help in anyway possible.
★ Ryan's Foundation just paid for new tires and supplied gas cards for a family whose 6 year old son was diagnosed and is suffering from Stage IV Neurblastoma, traveling back and forth to Maria Ferrari Children's Hospital. Whatever it takes to alleviate any stress, we will do.
★ Ryan's foundation paid rent and Central Hudson bill for a family living in Poughkeepsie whose daughter suffers from seizures and is now suffering from severe burns in the Westchester burn unit. We pray for this young girl and family.
★Ryan's foundation purchased a special needs car seat for a child who was diagnosed with Congenital Hydrocephalus, Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy, Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome, Asthma and GERD. Whatever we can do to help this family and child, we will do.
★Ryan's Foundation paid for a Bottini fuel bill for a family living in Hopewell Junction whose son was born with premature lungs and is living on a generator. Whatever we can do to help this family during this difficult time, we will do.
★Ryan's Foundation just paid for back rent for a family living in Poughkeepsie, whose son just recently went to Heaven. It is with a heavy heart, that we continue to pray for this family, to keep them in our thoughts and prayers and a reminder to love each day, never give up, and to be strong. Strong for those around you and strong for yourself. God bless this family and all those suffering
★One of Ryan's children recently relapsed from Ewing sarcoma. Ryan's foundation has helped this family previously and on this Sunday, Ryan's foundation just met with the daughter's mom to help offset some of the medical expenses.
We are praying for this young girl who has fought so much of her life against this horrible disease. Ryan's foundation is praying for you! God bless!
We are praying for this young girl who has fought so much of her life against this horrible disease. Ryan's foundation is praying for you! God bless!
★We are pleased and so incredibly happy and blessed to say that Ryan's barn is now handicapped accessible! Thanks to all those who got this done and to Stannah Stairlifts for the installation!
Ryan's barn is a dream come true and to say we are handicapped accessible is absolutely amazing. We could not be more proud of Ryan's barn and the amazing steps forward it is taking thanks to the generosity, help, and dedication to Ryan's Foundation and the children!
Ryan's barn is a dream come true and to say we are handicapped accessible is absolutely amazing. We could not be more proud of Ryan's barn and the amazing steps forward it is taking thanks to the generosity, help, and dedication to Ryan's Foundation and the children!
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★ Ryan's Foundation just paid for the mortgage for a family living in Kingston, NY whose daughter has inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor disorder; this is a life threatening disease which causes extensive tumor growth throughout the body. We are happy to help in anyway, and alleviate any stress and burden, during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
★Ryan's Foundation helped a young girl whose doctors told her she wasn't going to be able to walk again. Ryan's Foundation helped pay for special treatments and with the power of prayer, love, and hope, she was able to take her first steps to her father. Please find video www.facebook.com/ryanmcelroychildrensfoundation
★Ryan's Foundation just paid for a family's mortgage whose child recently underwent a bone marrow transplant from Clinton Corners, NY. After paying for medical bills and their child undergoing surgery, their mortgage was the last thing they were thinking about. Ryan's Foundation took that burden off their shoulders.
★Ryan's Foundation had one of our first families at the barn on August 26th! Fallyn got fitted for her new wheelchair with her mom, Bridget, her nurse, Cindy, and her physical therapist, Ann. Big thanks to Home Health Pavilion for the amazing customized wheelchair for Fallyn! Such an amazing morning!
★ The Dumas family came out to Ryan's barn August 14th to present Ryan's Foundation with a check from their son's birthday party last week. In lieu of gifts, Gavin wanted to have donations made to Ryan's foundation. It takes a special family, a special little boy to want to give back in such a remarkable way. He first found out about Ryan's foundation at the Dutchess County Fair, where he got his first Ryan's t-shirt, as he is wearing in the picture. Ever since that day, he wanted to give back and help kids. After his birthday party last weekend, he is making a difference in the life of a child! Thank you Gavin and thank you to the Dumas family!
★ Ryan's Foundation paid for wall to wall carpet removal in a families home so their son can go home after a bone marrow transplant. Following a bone marrow transplant children have very low immune systems and can't be exposed to germs, carpets tend to harbor many germs and therefore need to be removed from the home before the child can return
★ Ryan's Foundation purchased a custom pediatric stroller for a 15 year old with adrenoluekodistorphy (ALD), a degenerative disease, so that he can more easily go outside for walks.
★ Ryan's Foundation provided gas cards for a family staying at Maria Ferrari for 2 weeks so that dad could get back and forth from work up in Dutchess County.
★ Ryan's Foundation provided food cards to a family staying with their child at Maria Ferrari who had rushed down to the ER without any money for expenses.
★ Ryan's Foundation purchases a custom stander for a 9 year old with adrenoluekodistorphy (ALD), a degenerative disease, so that he is able to be in the standing position for part of the day which helps with digestion, muscle tone and other important benefits
★ Ryan's Foundation paid a medical bill for a family with a premie baby who spent a month in the NICU