Meet Ryan.

Ryan is 20 years old and was born with Down syndrome. Ryan has changed the lives of so many people he has crossed paths with. To know Ryan is to know pure joy, untainted love, and true excitement for everyday life. We didn’t understand just how exciting life would actually be because of him.

At 7 months old, Ryan underwent open-heart surgery to repair a heart defect common in those born with Down syndrome. Vanderbilt medical staff called him their “star” after he was ready to go home just five days post-op. The average stay was anywhere from 10–15 days, and some patients stayed up to 90 days post-op.

Within the next week, Ryan was rolling around and starting to sit up on his own. He continues to amaze us with his ability to blow away standard expectations.

At a very young age, Ryan displayed a beautiful musical gift for rhythm. He received his first hand drum at the age of 7. On his 10th birthday, he received his first full-size drum kit and began taking lessons from an instructor.

He learned all the best rock songs from KISS, Metallica, AC/DC, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and more. He won second place in the middle school talent show with his performance of “Uptown Funk” by Bruno Mars.

When he started high school, Ryan was able to take band as an elective, and his gift was quickly recognized. He joined the drumline during his sophomore year and took the field for many home football games over the next three years.

Ryan also loves to sing and play guitar. He says he wants to be a guitarist when he grows up, but for now, he earns his wages working at Colorado Grill right here in White House. Ryan loves working to earn money for himself.

Some of Ryan’s other hobbies include working out at Fitness 1440, practicing Jiu-Jitsu, and cheering his siblings on in soccer. Ryan also loves to play basketball and football. He has participated in Sumner County Special Olympics state tournaments for both basketball and flag football.

He is quite the athlete, always surprising us with his skill level, knowledge, and perseverance.

Ryan loves family time and wholeheartedly loves God. He also loves coffee, naps, and cold weather. He is the best encourager and has the deepest compassion. He never misses an opportunity to tell a good knock-knock joke to make you laugh.

His smile can brighten even the darkest day, and he always has a hug to share. He doesn’t know a stranger and is always glad to make a new friend.

He truly is the light of our family. His life is a testimony to the truth that God is always with you, even in the smallest moments. Every breath is a gift and should never be taken for granted.

God continually uses Ryan to comfort others and remind them of the importance of kindness and friendship.

I wouldn't be who I am without him.