Ryan approached life with a rare combination of courage, sincerity, and joy. He was the kind of person who showed up completely, giving his full heart and full effort to everything he did without ever holding back.
Whether he was practicing karate, learning archery, discovering a love for golf, or helping a student conquer a difficult math problem, Ryan leaned in fully. He believed that effort mattered, that community mattered, and that we should always do more for one another.
Created by Ryan's sister
A Tribute to Ryan
A collection of photos, videos, and cherished memories lovingly brought together by Ryan’s sister to celebrate his life and the moments that meant so much.
Watch directly on YouTubeA teacher's heart
A Heart for Helping Others
One of the most defining parts of Ryan’s life was his deep love for learning and teaching. As a math tutor for elementary students, he didn't just teach numbers—he built confidence. He was patient, encouraging, and deeply invested in helping children see their own potential.
Ryan was on a path to become a math teacher. For him, teaching wasn't just a career choice; it was who he was. He wanted to make learning less intimidating and more empowering, opening doors for kids one student at a time.
Courage into action
The Battle That Sparked a Mission
Watching Ryan battle leukemia was heartbreaking. Yet, even in the hardest moments, he remained fearless, compassionate, and focused on the well-being of the people around him. He never lost his desire to lift others up.
When Ryan passed, his family and community knew that his spirit couldn't stop with his diagnosis. The immense challenges, emotional weight, and real-world burdens that come with a cancer diagnosis had to be channeled into a purposeful lifeline for others.
Legacy in action
Why Level-Up for a Cure Exists
Level-Up for a Cure was created as a direct continuation of how Ryan lived. The distinct pillars of our mission are a literal reflection of his values, designed to tackle the exact hardships families face during a medical crisis.
Removing the Barrier of Housing Costs
When a child is diagnosed with cancer, a family should never have to compromise on their medical care. No parent should be forced to choose between standard local treatment or the absolute best specialized treatment simply because they cannot afford the cost of lodging near a major medical center.
Level-Up exists to provide housing nights to families, ensuring they have a safe, cost-free place to stay so they can access the highest quality care possible.
Advancing Cancer Research
Because we watched Ryan face leukemia with absolute bravery, we are committed to funding the cutting-edge research needed to spare other families from this heartbreak and move us closer to a cure.
Free Community Technology Education
Because Ryan was a passionate educator dedicated to giving children tools to succeed, we provide free tech education to continue his dream of opening doors, building confidence, and helping kids thrive.
What it means to Level-Up
Action over apathy.
Hope over fear.
Community over isolation.
Every golf tournament, gaming event, and educational program we host exists to keep Ryan's legacy alive—not just in memory, but in action.
Thank you for walking this journey with us and helping us ensure that no family has to fight this battle alone.