My Story

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Ryan was a handsome, vibrant young man who was loved by all who knew him in his home town of Wigan, Lancashire. He was the adored son of Stephen and Sharon; Grandson of Sandra, John, Barbara and Tom; Nephew of Amanda, Barry and Kerry; and companion of Ellie, his Yorkshire Terrier dog. He had many good friends, and was particularly close to his cousin Scott, and Laura (for whom we know he had a soft spot!).

At 13 he became an ace at Tae Kwon Do, winning the English and Welsh junior championships. His instructor was confident Ryan had the makings of a future Olympian and he was to be coached for the 2012 games. He was also a keen mountain biker who enjoyed cycling at Glentress with his parents and friends. He loved his films and, like most teenagers, enjoyed playing computer games - the noisier and more action packed, the better!

In September 2008, however, Ryan was diagnosed with a rare, inoperable brain tumour - Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma. He fought the illness with great courage and, even whilst undergoing a gruelling radio and chemotherapy regime, never lost his sense of humour.

By February 2009, it became evident that Ryan was losing his fight against the tumour. Heartbroken, we all did our best to ensure we made the most of the time we had left with him. A wonderful family friend paid for him to have a final holiday at EuroDisney, where he stayed in the resort's finest hotel.

Ryan's suffering ended in the early hours of 31st March 2009. He died peacefully, at Pendlebury Children's Hospital, in the arms of his parents. He was just 15 years of age.

His death has left an emptiness which can never be filled.

God bless, sweetheart. We will love you forever xxxx.

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