Ron’s Story

Site created on February 25, 2018

Welcome to Ron Ryan’s CareBridge site.

The week before Christmas, Ron went in for his annual physical exam and came home with a glowing report! But in mid-January, he felt a small lump on his shoulder at the base of the neck. When it was still there a week later, Ron returned to his GP who ordered blood tests and a CT scan. The blood work was all good, but the scan showed a large mass surrounding five arteries. A biopsy identified the mass as B-cell Non-Hodgkin (NHL) lymphoma, and Ron was admitted to the oncology unit at Swedish Hospital that afternoon.  A PET scan detected lymphoma in the glands of the upper chest and in the bone of the sternum. The first round of chemo was administered the following day.

Ron is home now and has taken a leave from his position as Pastoral Coordinator at St. Anne Parish as he and his doctors consider the next steps. His loved ones, family and friends have surrounded him with all their care, support and encouragement. Ron says he is feeling very peaceful, and is deeply aware of God’s presence and love through the many people who are praying for him. Thank you!

We will use this site to share Ron's updates, and you can write messages of encouragement in return. Please feel free to follow the site in order to keep updated and show your support. Every comment and prayer is appreciated!

Newest Update

Journal entry by Ron Ryan

Dad began radiation therapy last Wednesday, August 20.  He'll receive treatment everyday, Monday through Friday, for a total of 20 treatments.  With 5 down and 15 to go, he says this is much more manageable than chemotherapy.  Each treatment takes only a few minutes (as compared to six hours), and there are no drugs with interesting side effects involved!  He's experiencing some fatigue, but so far nothing that impacts his daily activities.

Before starting radiation, Dad was able to travel to Los Angeles to meet his new grandson, Emerson.  They hit it off really well and had some long, philosophical discussions.  You can see pictures in the gallery.

Dad will finish radiation at the end of September, but his oncologist says no tests or scans will be done until December, allowing the treatment to have its full effect.  As always, your prayers and support make a huge difference, and we are all grateful.
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