#RYDERSREBELS

DREAM TRIP

TO DISNEY WORLD & GIVE KIDS THE WORLD VILLAGE

Goal: $6,000

A Journey of Strength and Hope

Ryder is a wild and energetic 5-year-old from Little River, South Carolina, full of life and joy. But behind his playful smile is a journey filled with challenges that most families can’t imagine.

Ryder was diagnosed at birth with a rare genetic disease called Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD). ALD affects the brain and adrenal glands, and over time, it can cause loss of physical and mental functions, emotional changes, and life-threatening complications. There is no cure, and families like Ryder’s live with constant uncertainty about what each new day may bring.

Since his diagnosis, Ryder’s life has been a series of doctors’ appointments, tests, and treatments. At 15 months old, he was also diagnosed with Addison’s Disease, which led to several medical crises and hospitalizations. By 18 months, regular brain MRIs every few months became part of his routine.

This January, Ryder’s family received heartbreaking news. The small spot on his brain had grown, and he would need a bone marrow transplant. On May 6th, Ryder bravely underwent the procedure, but recovery was anything but easy. Complications from chemotherapy, infections, and painful side effects kept him in the hospital for 75 long days.

Shortly after discharge, Ryder fell ill again. His fight led him back to the ICU, where his parents faced the agonizing decision to put him on a ventilator. He spent 10 days intubated, including his 5th birthday. Though he was asleep through the celebration, his family sang and surrounded him with love.

When the ventilator was finally removed, Ryder opened his eyes and whispered the word his mom longed to hear: “Mommy.” But soon after, his ability to speak began to fade. Doctors discovered a virus in his spinal fluid, causing encephalitis. With treatment, hope returned once more. One morning, Ryder looked up and said, “Good morning,” his sweet voice filling the room again.

Today, Ryder is still in the hospital completing treatment. His journey continues with weekly appointments, countless labs, and ongoing care, but his courage inspires every doctor and nurse who meets him. Through it all, Ryder remains a light, resilient, joyful, and full of fight.

His mom shares, “There were days we didn’t know if we’d hear his voice again. Now every word is a gift. Ryder has taught us the true meaning of hope.”

Our mission is to raise $6,000 to send Ryder and his family on a dream trip to Disney World and Give Kids The World Village, a place where kids facing life-threatening illnesses can finally set their worries aside. For Ryder, it would mean trading hospital walls for castles, beeping machines for laughter, and days of uncertainty for memories that will last a lifetime. This isn’t just a trip. It is a chance to give Ryder the childhood moments he has missed.