When Ryan was four years old, he suffered a brain injury from a hypoglycemic attack. It happened overnight, and as a result, he spent three weeks in a coma. Brain damage left Ryan unable to walk and talk and with many other disabilities. He spent eight months away from home after his injury, working hard to get better. in December of 2008, he came to Grandview Children’s Centre.

Grandview has supported Ryan in many different ways. He has participated in class and therapy and has had assistance with his feeding issues. His teachers at Campbell’s Children’s School got him learning again by using his favourite characters, Lightening McQueen and Mater, as well as hockey players. Because of his dystonia, all Ryan’s equipment at Grandview has been modified to suit him best. His therapist even made a referral to a doctor who could help with his scoliosis, and he has had spinal surgery to help him sit very straight.

Grandview also helps Ryan in his attempts to communicate with his family, teachers and therapists. He uses his own computer in his classroom with head and hand switches, and a Dynavox system with an EyeMax attachment. This new system allows him to use his eyes to make selections.

Ryan has been making a slow but steady recovery from his brain injury. His parents believe that he would not be where he is if it wasn’t for Grandview and Campbell’s Children’s School.

To show her appreciation to Grandview, Ryan’s sister Jillian has recently started a fundraiser in honour of her brother and his determined spirit. "Ryan’s Smile" is a way for her to combine her two loves: crafts, and her younger brother. Jillian is making friendship bracelets and selling them. She will donate all the money to charity with a portion going to Grandview, as it has become a place that means the world to Ryan.