Meet Ryan, This Week's Patch Whiz Kid

Whiz Kid's Name, Age:  Ryan Summers, 3.5 years

Whiz Kid's School: 

Whiz Kid's Accomplishments:
Ryan Summers, a toddler described by his mother Denise as “pretty darn amazing” is just that. Ryan was born with a rare genetic skin condition called Junctional Epidermolysis Bullosa, which causes blistering and resulting wounds. He was hospitalized last fall for blisters in his airway and almost didn’t survive. He was in a medically induced coma, left physically weakened, but not discouraged.

Despite his serious medical condition, a very determined Ryan has overcome the odds and has activities and interests that others may take for granted.

Ryan’s most recent and remarkable accomplishment is his return to preschool after his hospitalization.

After months of being carried, he is now walking with the help of a hula-hoop.  Denise anticipates he will walk again on his own in a few weeks.

Ryan is a ‘big talker’ who has a growing vocabulary and loves to talk on the phone.  He also enjoys using his iPad. “The iPad is an important tool for communication since Ryan may not be able to speak in the future,” Denise explained.

Trucks top his favorite toy list, and Ryan is excited to attend Monster Jam. While this may sound like an ordinary outing, the Summers had to secure special box seats to guarantee a reduced-dust environment with private bathrooms.
 
Denise shared that Ryan has play-dates and tried a Teamworks class, remarking she “never imagined he would have this normal of a life.” 

Whiz Kid's Key to Awesomeness:
There is no shortage of adjectives to describe Ryan’s personality. For starters there is friendly, outgoing and incredibly endearing, not to mention determined, intelligent, humorous and inquisitive. Denise shared, “Ryan is a doting big brother who loves a challenge and focuses on things that are important,” adding that he can often be heard saying "that'll be okay, I can help you."

Denise said the support of neighbors and the people of Westborough has been more than gracious. To learn more about Ryan and his condition, visit:  www.happychapryan.com