My friend died today

Today my friend died. A boy I new through school, who became a man, gave of himself died because of the selfless act of love for his brother. It had risks, but no one thought this would happen. Here is some of what his family said, in their words...

Wednesday, July 28, 2010 10:12 PM, CDT

As many of you know, Ryan's brother Chad is in the final stages of liver disease. Tomorrow the doctors will remove Chad's liver, and then take 2/3 of Ryan's liver and transplant it into Chad. An amazing medical procedure, but one that comes with serious risks. They will be going into surgery here in Denver early tomorrow morning. We can't thank you enough for your prayers, they mean the world to us. And we look forward to delivering a positive report.

(Shannon, Ryan, Chad, Christine)

Thursday, July 29, 2010 10:15 AM, CDT

Hello all. This is Shannon. Just thought I would update you as to how our days have transpired. Last night we all ate together then went to Chad's home to pray together laugh together and have communion. Ryan has really felt mostly peace, his demeanor really helps to keep me calm.

This morning we arrived at 5:30 AM. . . . I'll let that sink in. . . . AM, people. When we arrived at the hospital we waited. (ahem)
We've laughed, made a lot of lame liver jokes, had some touching moments. It's been good. There is a local media team here covering the story. I was a little apprehensive about this, however, they are so congenial, it's been nice to talk with them.

I accompanied Ryan to the pre-op where various people took turns with their torture techniques and I'm guessing took bets as to which one could scare us into bolting with their worse case scenario warnings. However, it's still a go :-)

Ryan has been in surgery for almost 2 hours, Chad just went in. Their surgery is timed so that 2 teams work separately, yet together.Thanks for your prayers

Chad pre-op

Ryan post-op

Friday, July 30, 2010 11:59 AM, CDT

Hey everyone. I just got done reading all of your messages in the guestbook to Ryan. Wow. Overwhelming. Your words and kindness have been so special in a time like this. Thank you.

Ryan is doing well this morning. Groggy from the medicine but farely comfortable. Most of the pain he feels is in his shoulder which is referred pain from the diaphram, where (I believe) part of the liver was dissected from. Crazy. I guess it's the body's way of one-upping the epidural which is blocking the pain around his midsection.

Ryan is still in the ICU. But, we will be transferred to the main transplant floor soon. He was kept here as more of a precaution.

It's been a sweet time here, really an amazing thing. It's taken awhile for it all to sink in, Chad is functioning with Ryan's liver . . . almost doesn't seem real. I've had some ups and downs, I've been fortunate enough previous to this, that all of the chords and beeping and grogginess and surgery recovery situations is new, foreign and a little (ok alot) scary. Luckily I've avoided anyone having to witness the ugly cry. I know recovery will be a long road, and we watch their reactions, levels, and all of the machines carefully. I hope I'm a more sensitive person after this when someone else goes through tough times. Your messages and kindness, meals (Ade . . . no words) are a huge gift. Thanks.

-Shannon

Sunday, August 1, 2010 10:18 AM, CDT

Unfortunately things took a turn for the worse last night. Ryan went code blue and was resuscitated. He is now in critical condition.

We ask that you stand in faith and fight with us. Pray with authority in Jesus' name. Pray for healing and restoration of every cell in his body. Death can't have him.

Monday, August 2, 2010 2:12 PM, CDT

Doctor's report came back with no brain activity. Seems that Ry has been in heaven, likely experiencing the glory of God, catching up with his uncle, his grandpa, his friend Jason's dad and little boy.

Life support hasn't been removed yet. We'd like him to come back to us, but we can't imagine the glory of where he's at.
I'll miss you, little bro. We love you so much. God, show us the path to guide our family through this. We covet your peace.

- Janelle

Monday, August 2, 2010 11:04 PM, CDT Ryan went to be with Jesus this afternoon.

Ryan was a Godly man, a loving husband, an amazing father and a great friend. Our prayer is that his life and his story of selfless love will be a testimony to many, now and in the years to come.

Our family is touched by the love, scripture and encouragement you all have poured out to us over the past few days. Thank you for overwhelming us with support and lifting our arms when we've had no strength. We are deeply touched.

Please share Ryan's story for us. We want his legacy to live on.


This reminds me of another man who loved his family so much that he sacrificed it all...knowing for him the consequences were death. Jesus Christ was his name and because of him and his sacrifice I know that Ryan is once again smiling and with family. Even though Ryan didn't know this would be the outcome, he loved his family so much that it was the chance he was willing to take to save his brother.
What a ache I have knowing that Shannon, Ryan's wife has to start this road ahead raiseing three young boys by herself...she is a strong woman and will succeed with the help of her family, friends and Heavenly father and Jesus Christ.

Ryan and I were friends, not best and we didn't hang out together but friends like many of the friends I had in high school. What I remember most is his beautiful smile. I will always remember that smile.Chad and Ryan

This is the Ryan I remember...it has been 14 years since I've seen him and like I said before I may not have been great friends with him but I still call him a Friend. Til we meet again, my friend. Always, Ranee