Luke Ryker – Game Ball Relay (GBR16) Runner

We are the Ryker family, and we have come all the way from Oklahoma to receive the exceptional health care provided by SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital. Our only son Luke was born with a congenital heart defect – an abnormality present at birth affecting 40,000 babies in the United States. After three heart surgeries in Oklahoma, he became a little too complex and we were referred to Cardinal Glennon to receive the excellent care of Dr. Huddleston.

We arrived December 2014 and quickly took up residence for nearly six months, moving rooms 10 times between PICU and TCU. Literally, we became a part of the Cardinal Glennon family. Luke had complications and later would be listed for a heart transplant. There were times Luke was very unstable and in critical condition, which is a very scary time for any parent. Through all of the ups and downs the staff supported and cheered us on. We have been in St. Louis for 14 months now, and we will continue to stay as we wait on Luke’s special heart.

I don’t think any words could possibly be adequate to express my feelings of gratitude during our time here. From the housekeepers, the nurses in PICU and TCU, therapists, residents and doctors – – they all showed compassionate care that is immeasurable. Never had we experienced such genuine care, especially from a highly skilled facility and full of knowledgeable staff. Luke is well-traveled in pediatric hospitals, throughout three states he’s been in four hospitals. Cardinal Glennon is by far the best and our favorite!

Luke is proud and excited to be representing Cardinal Glennon’s heart family for the Game Ball Relay. Please consider supporting the many children of Cardinal Glennon, including those affected with heart conditions. Currently the Dorothy and Larry Dallas Heart Center allows more than 23,000 visits and procedures to be performed each year. With your support, families like ours can be blessed through your generous hearts.

Sincerely,
April & Billy Ryker

Please join us and #TeamLuke #GBR16 in raising funds to support Cardinal Glennon’s lifesaving work! So many children and families benefit from this amazing hospital and we are excited to help make it even better! Every penny raised will go to the hospital and directly affect the children.