Our Story

Our precious son Ryan was diagnosed with neuroblastoma cancer when he was 5 years old.

He treasured attending Battalion Park School and the time spent with his classmates and teachers. Ryan found so much joy participating in Timbits hockey, Little League baseball and Rangers soccer. He had an unbridled enthusiasm for music, which he showed through playing piano, dance parties in the family room with his brother and car karaoke to his favourite songs. Ryan loved birthday parties and celebrating everyone’s special day. He was also a Calgary Flames and Edmonton Oiler’s Fan (at the insistence of his dad) and was honoured at the Flames Hockey Fights Cancer Event in November 2017.

Ryan loved his family and friends, especially spending time with his brother Aidan.

For over two years, Ryan fought neuroblastoma. Despite how difficult the treatments were on his small body, he managed to smile at the worst of times and be cheerful and motivated to learn at school and while working with his mom. In the last month of his life, when he was unable to walk, he became the biggest fan of Amazing Race Canada and Master Chef. He never, ever gave up and courageously battled cancer until the very end. He was a fighter, but with a gentle soul and unwavering kindness and selflessness. Ryan exemplified everything that was pure and good and his parents and brother remain in awe of his strength, resilience and fearlessness against all odds. He made all of us reflect on what true sacrifice is and has left us striving to do and be better.

Although Ryan was only seven years old at the time of his passing, he carried the wisdom of an old soul.

The legacy of his teachings was far reaching and he will forever be carried in the hearts of those who knew him.