Born at 4:20P.M. On Veteran's Day in 1975, a strong, beautiful baby boy.
Eight pounds, thirteen ounces of pure wonder and joy.
Dark curly hair and big blue eyes and a smile as wide as the sky.
His name is Ryan and eventually becomes known as DJ Ry.
Flyer red wagon, a trike, a scooter and a nice bike.
Ryan loved to gather his friends and hit the woods for a hike.
Little toy drums, trains, transformers, and then came the Incredible Hulk.
With a great appetite, parents had to keep milk in the fridge by the bulk.
Little sister now on the scene.
Ryan was the great big brother sheltering her from those who were mean.
Loving music, he was a drummer in the high school band.
Ryan explains to Mr. "C" that he broke another drum head again.
Teen years of music, cd's, drums and a microphone.
School, band, work and some play; Ryan was rarely ever home.
Close friends, girls, wheels, prom, then graduation.
Soon after he became the best DJ in the area with a glowing reputation.
The picture of health, good eater, no bad reports from school and such.
Who was to know his health in his early adult years, would change for him in luck?
Mid-thirties in age and life is much different now.
Tired body and swollen legs, Ryan feels like he was hit by a plow.
Work, life and stress a big factor.
Ryan knew in his heart it was time to call the doctor.
Doctor locks the door only to reveal this young man was not going anywhere.
Telephone in hand, calling family with much new medical information to share.
Ryan was told his heart was only working at ten percent.
Off in a big helicopter he went.
Boston Brigham & Women's Hospital with doctors, nurses, face masks and meds.
Surprised to learn they even have vibrating hospital beds.
IV tubes and machines lit up like the New York Skyline.
Ryan was told his heart was weak and had enlarged over time.
Released for home and stepping into the elevator.
In his chest now rests a defibrillator.
One day his defibrillator made the call.
It threw his body against a concrete wall.
Life for Ryan at this time did not seem fair at all.
Several years passed while attached to an LVAD life assist device.
Questioning life as to why he got this role of the dice.
The LVAD came with its own set of stress.
It had to be worn with a wide seat belt type strap across his chest.
Also with a large heavy canvas bag on his hip.
Some days while attending events, Ryan had to bite his lip.
People would comment thinking he was the camera man.
Wanting so much to explain that this would not have been his plan.
With humor he would endure.
Knowing well his days were numbered, for sure..
DJ RY was dancing to a much different tune.
There will be no swimming for him come June.
No ocean, no rich foods, fatty meats or salty cheese.
Pass the no-salt shaker please!
Ryan was to watch his diet and foods rich in white flour.
The worst was not being able to take a normal shower.
Sixteen months later and now 2016 on a beautiful day in May.
Ryan got the call and grabbed his luggage without any delay.
Accompanied by his lovely wife, Pam, they headed to Boston to receive a new heart.
Heavy on his mind, emotions running from high to low.
Not even knowing where to start.
Over a two hour ride to the hospital, door to door.
Walking into the swinging doors, his feet felt like mush upon the floor.
Life as he knew it would not be the same anymore.
Fourteen days later, Ryan walked proudly out Brigham & Women's main doors.
His wife Pam by his side, taking long steps in his stride.
No more LVAD or defibrillator guest.
But rather, a new healthy heart beating loud and proud in his chest.
Feeling so grateful and blessed.
Boston Brigham & Women's Hospital are the best.
Six months later now and still beating strong.
Realizing the recovery is forever long.
Recent reports showing zero rejection.
Also, very happy to learn of no infection.
Eventually hoping to learn of his donor and their story.
Thanking the good lord for all his blessings and glory.
Ryan gives thanks to each and every person that had a part in his new life.
Now he has a chance at a somewhat normal life with his wonderful new wife.
Every day this DJ gets to witness the beat as his heart pulses to a new tune.
Yay, Ryan can now go swimming in June!
This DJ will forever be playing a new song.
Praying each and every day that his new life will be forever long.