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I sat here in front of my computer, on-and-off, for hours. I don’t even know where — or how — to begin. How do I say “thank you” to all of you? I resigned myself to the realization that, no matter what I write, words will never express our appreciation for all you do. No doubt, words will fall short. It’s an impossible undertaking. So, on this day of thanks in the United States, my family gives thanks for you.
As I said so many times before, you give Ryan the best opportunity to come back to us. Without you, his (and our) situation would be dire indeed. Really, it would be beyond dire. He is in amazing condition, given the severity of his injuries, thanks to you. You provide everything we need to keep him healthy and comfortable. Yes, everything… right down to a pillow to rest his precious head on.
This past two weeks I reviewed everything that’s been provided to us over the past 2-plus years. I looked at every donation. Every Get Well card. Every meal delivered to our home. Every item purchased through Ryan’s Wish List. Every fundraiser. Every voluntary act. Every business that unselfishly took on projects. I looked at every name and reflected on your compassion. It was emotional for me. I wish I could say I was able to hold it together. You touch me deeply.
Thanksgiving, to us, is more than a single day. It’s every day.
You are always in my thoughts. Seriously, always. Every time I reach for something I think about the person who cared enough to give it to us. I even name these things after you, and make it a point to tell Ryan your name. I talk to Ryan all day (I think out-loud, which has gotten me into trouble once in a while), and so much of this involves you… by name. I even pull up your pictures (usually from FaceBook) and show it to him. Then I give him a hug and kiss his forehead on your behalf. I hope that, in some weird cosmic-way, you can feel it.
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
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I want to also thank you Ken, and your family for taking the time to step us all through how Ryan is doing through your website/video’s. I can see, the progress he is making slowly. He is responding to everything. What a humble family. God Bless you all of you, for being there for your son/brother/friend.
A beautiful reflection Ken. You remind us of both the beauty of a generous giver and also the importance of a grateful heart.
Dear Ken, Sue, Kari & Ryan,
Happy Thanksgiving to an incredible, incredible family. I want to thank you all for teaching me that there is no greater gift than love. You epitomize love every day in your wonderful care for Ryan. You have an unbelievable strength and fortitude – borne from that love – that others can only dream of. Know that on this Thanksgiving, and every day for that matter, I give thanks for you, and for all you do for your precious son and brother.
Love,
carla
Happy Thanksgiving, buddy. I want to thank you for clearly demonstrating to me what unconditional love is through your actions with Ryan. You are an inspiration to many, many people. Peave and love to you and your family this Thanksgiving! (and I’ll see you in a couple weeks!)
Happy Thanksgiving Team Diviney~ On this day of the wonderful gifts of family, delicious food and dare I say football, I am so grateful for the gifts that Ken, Sue, Ryan, Kari, Duke and Tucker have brought to my life. The friendships of my fellow prayer warriors, Ken’s humor when I walk in the door and say “Hi Handsome” to Ryan, Sue’s beautiful soul and spirit, Kari’s joyful light that she brings to all who meet her, and Ryan’s every move to communicate and show love.
The horrendous actions of a few, have brought thousands of wonderful people together in one common goal. Ryan, you will come back to us, and oh what a joyful day that will be! I adore and love all of you~
Happy Thanksgiving, Diviney family. Have a peaceful day. Hugs to Ryan!
Thinking of you this Thanksgiving Day. Hoping the smells of the kitchen give Ryan comfort knowing he has a wonderful and loving family to be thankful for. Enjoy the time with Kari home.
Made our day! Seriously, you surely did–thanksgiving and cheer from a place I didn’t expect! Our grandson left for basic traing at Ft. Jackson on Tuesday, so we are a bit glum today. Only a bit, because we know what a great young man he is, and he is doing the right thing. Like Ryan, he has the “right stuff.” Nevertheless, me miss him, especially today. We think about the opportunities that Ryan is missing right now, but hopefully down the road–we have dreams for our man, Ryan. He is the first person I think about in the morning, and the last I think about at night. We can never thank you enough for keeping us close to Ryan and all of his family. Have a good Thanksgiving Day. Love, hope, faith and prayers.
I am blessed to know this loving family. I wish to be a part of what everyone has said. My prayers continue for Ryans healing. Know that you are loved this Thanksgiving.
Always thinking of Ryan and your family. There is much for all of us to give thanks for. I am thankful, as you, for those that touch your lives with empathy, love, and compassion.
Blessed be the name of the Lord. May you find the simplest joy in this day.
Ken, thank you for sharing your world with us. My life has — changed and lifted up from knowing you and your family. I don’t see life the same anymore. From watching you, Sue, Ryan and Kari — my definitions of strength, courage and determination have changed — they’ve become magnified and expanded.
In you and your family, I’ve seen a kind of fortitude that is rare — the same kind I see in my sister who lovingly cares for my parents with such devotion and commitment; the same kind I see in parents who go the distance with their children, no matter what their struggles may be. My Lord, the demands can be so physically and emotionally exhausting.
To imagine this kind of radiant love exists is one thing; to see it is — breathtaking, and restores my soul. It gives me great hope, watching the lengths a Dad will go for his son, and seeing others become so inspired by this.
I pray, dear Ken, that your burdens will be lessened, and your grief soothed by knowing how much you and your family are loved and cared about.
I’ve seen a few miracles in m time….and Ryan is one.
Still here, still praying, not going anywhere — ever.
Love & hope, always
Paula
My family and I wish you a peaceful Thanksgiving. Enjoy togertherness and be assured that God has a special mission for all of us. You have become an inspiration to many families in the community and beyond. Love, Monica E. Skinner
I, like so many others, check on Ryan daily. I cry with you….I pray for you….I hope with you. Have a peaceful day with your family and know that there are so many of us pulling for you.
My wish for the entire Diviney family is to have a wonderful day as a family. I don’t know what has drawn me to Ryan in such a profound way, but he’s in my thoughts and prayers always. I’m glad to be part of such a wonderful group of people who want to help Ryan! Love to all of you and Happy Thanksgiving.
Maybe Ryan would enjoy listening to the Parade today. I hope it is a peaceful day for all of you, Thank You, for the updates on Ryan and allowing us to be a part of his life.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family today, and every day. You all have become a part of my life. My son is home for Thanksgiving…Ryan’s age. I hugged him and cried. I cried for you and for Ryan. And still, I gave thanks that Ryan has the family he has…..you are all here in my heart, in the heart of the Finger Lakes, today and every day.
Much love and prayers. A big hug to Ryan today!
Ken, We thank you for letting us be involved with Ryan’s healing process. Getting to know you all and being able to help in any little way we can has been amazing..Ryan has touched so many hearts ,especially in his strong will to get better and has come so far and will continue to go much further….-And I for one of so, so many will be here NGA. Have a peaceful ,calm Thanksgiving…..Hope reduction is working well. A big hug for Ryan and all of you. Love Gail
We think of your family and send thanks and blessings to you always as well. Your love for Ryan and his fighting spirit have touched us all deeply. Your imprint on our hearts is not only relevant but eternal. Much love to your family on this Thanksgiving. Be blessed and know you are all loved beyond measure!