Sergeant Ryan was just thirty-four years old, living his life with his beautiful wife, Liana, two children and one more on the way. He loved parachuting, a skill he had mastered during his 11 years in the Army National Guard of Florida, 3/20th Special Forces Group ( Airborne). During a training exercise in 2020, Ryan suffered a serious head injury. Although the injury was not outwardly apparent, Ryan was subsequently diagnosed with a Traumatic Brain Injury. Additionally, the head injury triggered a genetic mutation for early onset Alzheimer’s disease.
Life changed dramatically for Ryan and his family after the injury. Liana left her job to care for him and their children full time. Looking for additional support, they sold their home in Florida and moved to Illinois to be closer to family. Ryan’s symptoms quickly progressed, making it impossible for him to be cared for in the family home. He is now living in a residential memory care village.
Through all the enormous challenges for their family, Liana has steadily taken on all the responsibilities she once shared with Ryan. Childcare, pursuing proper care for Ryan and the move across the country is all on her shoulders. For more than two years, Liana fought for the appropriate service connection for Ryan. Once in Illinois, she contacted SALUTE for additional resources. SALUTE responded with assistance for three apartment rental payments, weekend healthcare services and referrals for pro bono help with finances and taxes. Local students sending letters of love and encouragement to Ryan, as well as visits to Ryan added emotional support for the family.
Liana has been open about the struggles they have faced:
“Every season has brought new challenges…My biggest ongoing challenge has been building a stable support system while trying to cover the emotional, financial and physical demands of caregiving and parenting. It’s a lot and it’s relentless.”