I already decided that I’m going to mix it up today with Ryan’s routine. He’s going to get the day off (mostly) so that we can enjoy the cool day forecasted here in northern Virginia. This should mean some quality patio time! They are calling for temperatures to stay below eighty-degrees through the morning and into the early afternoon. The weather here, over the past several weeks, was entirely too hot and humid. On top of this, his HBOT schedule (early morning and early evening) sucks up any chance of getting him outside.
When Ryan finishes his HBOT session this morning, we’re headed straight out as soon as the misty rain stops. I’ll give him a light stretch — say, forty-five minutes worth — in his wheelchair. I’ll follow this with passive exercise on the ActiveCycle with about an hour on the legs and thirty-minutes on the arms. This can all be accomplished on the patio. Who knows, by the time I’m ready to sit down maybe the outside patio-chair cushions will even be dry. Could I be so lucky?
Sue will not be available to enjoy much of this time with us. She is making a Costco run that, as we all know, is more of an event than simply shopping. Unfortunately, Ryan’s Wish List isn’t getting the support it once did and we need to do some major restocking. The cold truth is I don’t even list some items anymore because they didn’t get purchased in the past. I hope it’s just because summer has everyone preoccupied, but I can’t help but admit this didn’t happen the last two summers.
I fear Ryan is losing relevance. Yes, the decline in community financial support is an indicator but there are other signs that can’t be ignored. It almost feels like the sunshine is fading.
I blame myself.
I hope to make some time this week to find ways to rekindle the passion and support that once blazed like an inferno.
Nicole S says
Still here! Now tuning in from Deutschland. Your family is absolutely always in my thoughts.
Anna says
Ryan will ALWAYS be relevant Ken! Peoples lives take on different circumstances, but Ryan will always be in their lives and be relevant.
Gwen says
Ken, Ryan is very relevant, and he is because you keep him in the forefront. We are all in awe of and inspired by what you do for Ryan. Please keep the wish list up to date with what you need, because you never know who or when someone might be able to purchase something. I’ve done a purchase in the past, but lost my job a few months ago. My husband and I have already talked about doing a monthly contribution and occasional wish list purchases once I’m working again. We keep you, Ryan, Sue, and Kari in our prayers every day and I’ve told your story to numerous people, so we also try to keep to Ryan’s name out there. I’m sure we’re not the only ones who do that. So, Ken, never lose faith in this group that rallies around your Ryan. We may not always be able to do as much as we’d like, but we’re never going away.
SHSP, NGA!
Gwen
Laura says
We’ve not all forgotten…. I have something up my sleeve but I can’t share yet. But thought I’d tease you a little with that. You’ll officially hear from me in a few weeks!
Kathy says
I would just like to remind everyone that the Ride for Ryan is going on this week. See the events page for more info!
Carla Liberty says
Hey Ken,
You are certainly not losing relevance!!! I ordered two things from Amazon for you last night. Sending you a copy of the receipt so you can see when the order was placed! (and when to expect the items!)
I think with the summer schedule and people being in and out of town, you might think that interest is waning but I can assure you that is not the case at all!
Please give Ryan a hug from all of the Libertys!
Love,
carla
Debra Barnes Blankers via Facebook says
Just stopping by to say goodnight and I hope you have a restful night. Love you!!! xoxoxoxo
Jo says
I am hoping the rain holds off until later tonight if we get anymore at all. It’s a nice day, even if it is cloudy, at least it’s not 105 degrees. 🙁 That was a rough week!
We could never forget Ryan, Ken. Summer is such a busy time for most of us, however, with the chilluns off from school and expected visitors as well as the unexpected. Looking forward to the day when you can drive over here with Ryan. Lord, I don’t think this is asking too much of you, and we know you are healing Ryan as fast as possible. Ryan is never far from my thoughts and constantly in my prayers.
Love to all, always here, and there in spirit.
Will Niermeyer says
Have a relaxing BBQ.
Paula says
If you miss the opportunity to help, you miss the blessing — and the blessing is very big. To know Ryan is to admire, respect and love him.
To all who are proud to call themselves members of “Team Diviney,” thank you for your commitment to help Ryan and his family. Now it’s time for us to spread the word.
People have a tendancy to forget, but the financial and emotional strain takes its toll, and a family is *depending on us* to be there for them. It is not an act of obligation, but of love. Let’s continue to stand up for a young man whose voice may be silent*, but whose drive to live is a force to be reckoned with.
Thank you so much and love to all.
Hugs, love and prayers throughout the nights and days
Paula
*for now
Colleen says
Just ordered something for Ryan, I know it’s been awhile. He is relevant to me everyday and always will be. I enjoy hearing what he’s doing and how he is doing. I know tomorrow will be a long day for you, how long do we have to wait before knowing of the Parole Boards decision?
ryansrally.org says
The parole hearing scheduled for this week was postponed. https://ryansrally.org/2012/07/17/austin-vantrease-parole-hearing-postponed/. I wrote about it last week in a post.
Colleen says
Oh my gosh, I don’t know how I missed that post – i check in everyday. What a beautifully written letter by Ryan’s friend! I feel like I got caught skipping school.
Andrea lavigne says
Never let the sunshine fade. Easy to say, but difficult to do. You are a fantastic family and Ryan is so very lucky to have you fighting for him.
Family friend says
I echo all the above post! Bring on the Cornhole! Patio Man, are you ready to go down? haha
Gail Doyle says
Ken, Ryan will always be relevant to so,so many of us and I wish we all could help so much more .So glad Ryan is getting out in this beautiful weather,Yes it has been hot and humid past weeks here too ,but last few days real nice.
I can’t even imagine what you and Sue go through every day ,but believe me Ken there are so very many who will always be with you all and praying for things to get better. If not in person,definitely in spirit!
Hang in there, Ken WE ARE HERE ALWAYS!!!!!!! NGA!!!!!
Please give Ryan a big hug from me and try to have a peaceful day Love gail