Ryan

Ryan’s story

In 2008, Ryan began complaining of tummy aches and back pain. Many visits to the family GP followed as Ryan’s symptoms became increasingly worse. Eventually, in July 2008, after being referred to hospital for an ultrasound, Ryan was diagnosed with stage 4 high-risk neuroblastoma. The cancer had spread throughout Ryan’s body to his bones and bone marrow. 

Frontline treatment was successful and finished the day before his third birthday. With no evidence of disease, his parents enjoyed an active and happy year with their son. Sadly, at the age of four, an ultrasound and X-ray confirmed he had relapsed. 

At this time, Ryan received every form of treatment available to him in the UK, including TVD and MIBG therapy at University College London Hospital. Ryan then received ch14.18 antibody therapy in Greifswald, Germany, after which he achieved remission for the second time in January 2012. 

Devastatingly, just a month later in March 2012, Ryan relapsed for the second time with a tumour encasing his spine. 

After receiving radiotherapy, his parents received the news they had hoped and prayed for, Ryan was in his third complete remission. At this time, they started discussions with consultants in Tübingen, Germany where a clinical trial for a haploidentical stem cell transplant had shown very promising results for preventing further relapse. 

Not available in the UK at the time, the family turned to Solving Kids' Cancer UK (then the NCCA UK) and the public for help to raise the funds. The overwhelming support from the public meant enough funds were raised so Ryan could access the treatment.  

The transplant took place in September 2012 and although the process initially went smoothly for Ryan, his body tried to reject the new cells. The treating team in Tübingen prevented the rejection but regretfully Ryan developed GvHD (Graft versus Host Disease) of the mouth, skin and stomach. He was in Germany for a total of 9 months before returning home where he slowly regained his health. 

Ryan is now 16 years old and is over 10 years in remission. He is truly enjoying life to the fullest. 

_{Solving Kids' Cancer UK's children's fundraising campaigns}

_{Funds raised through a child's fundraising campaign for access to treatment are spent on their treatment and pastoral needs. Any remaining funds, and all funds raised after five years post the end of the child's treatment, are used to support other children and families through Solving Kids' Cancer UK's activities.}