Ryan’s Story

Site created on November 11, 2022

Ryan (3) and his brother Remy (6 mo) were born with Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome (a genetic condition which they get from their dad) this is an overgrowth syndrome. They get routine ultrasounds and blood draws every three months to look for tumors which they have a higher risk for with this syndrome. At Ryan’s ultrasound in September they saw something on one of his kidneys. We scheduled a sedated CT Scan. After that, they decided they needed more imaging so we did a sedated MRI. After the MRI they decided we needed to get the mass removed. We had this surgery done on Tuesday, November 11th. The surgery went very well and they were able to remove it all! He is now at home recovering.

This mass ended up being a favorable histology wilms tumor. With finding out this information we also found our lives will be flipped upside down. These tumors are the 4th most common cancer in children and the most common kidney cancer. Ryan’s oncologist informed us that he will need 21 weeks of chemotherapy. At this point we are working on scheduling a CT to look if it went elsewhere in his body, a PET scan to look if lymph nodes are affected and to determine the stage of the cancer, and scheduling surgery to get his port put in. The two scans will help determine how much treatment he will actually need. The port will accessed weekly where he will receive his medicine and for them to do blood draws for tests. These three things are going to take place next week. 

At this point we are still trying to figure out what life will be and how to navigate this journey. We know Ryan is a strong boy and will do his best throughout this process. We love him so much and know so many of you do as well. Thank you in advance for all your love, support, and prayers. This is where we will be providing updates as with text messages we may miss someone. 

Newest Update

Swim Day!!!

Journal entry by Melanie Watson —

This afternoon we got to go for our first dip in the pool! Ryan was going to be the first one in but ended up backing out and making daddy go first. Both him and Salina were timid. Everybody had a blast and the pool was actually not that cold! Ben spent all morning building a spot for the solar heater we got for the pool. The good news is it’s actually working! Can’t wait to see what some hot days will do for it!

We can not wait for the endless memories to be made in the pool. Also for Ryan when he is older to really understand why he earned this! Every time I look at the pool it’s a reminder of all the hard work Ryan did gaining his super powers. 

Only fitting to wear a Batman swimsuit and goggles! 
Read More of the journal titled "Swim Day!!! "
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Ryan Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Ryan's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?

Leave a comment of support for Ryan

Did you know? A quick comment, no matter the situation (positive or negative), can boost morale by 28.2%.

Comments Hide comments

Load more comments
Read More Journal Entries

Show Your Support

See the Ways to Help page to get even more involved.

Personal Fundraiser
Support Links
Helpful Requests
Go to Ways to Help
SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top