Care That Helps Families Keep Going

At Ryan House, respite stays are often reminiscent of camp, filled with creativity, play, connection, and moments of joy for kids with life-limiting conditions. Whether through art, music, sensory activities, outdoor time, quiet comfort, or one-on-one care, every child is met exactly where they are in a safe, supportive, homelike environment.

One beloved tradition that has been part of Ryan House for years is the personalized journal lovingly created for each child. Filled with colorful artwork, heartfelt notes, photos, and memories, these journals help capture the care, comfort, joy, and belonging that happen during each stay. This summer, our care team is especially enjoying capturing warm-weather memories for each child’s journal, from creative activities indoors to special moments shared throughout their time at Ryan House.
For families, these stays offer something just as meaningful: rest and relief from the demands of around-the-clock caregiving. A break may mean getting a peaceful night’s sleep, spending quality time with other children, reconnecting with a spouse, attending a wedding, or checking off a bucket list experience like running a marathon or taking a special trip they otherwise may not be able to enjoy.

For families providing constant care, respite is not a luxury. It is care that helps the whole family keep going. While children receive personalized care and meaningful experiences at Ryan House, parents and caregivers have time to breathe, recharge, and return with more energy, connection, and capacity to make memories together.

This summer, we are shining a light on the power of these breaks and the families who need them. Every Ryan House child is different. Every break is personal. And because caregiving is constant, the need for trusted respite is immediate.
Your generosity makes these breaks possible. Your support provides personalized care for children and much-needed rest and relief for families when they need it most.

Thank you for helping provide the care that keeps families going.

With heartfelt thanks,

Tracy Leonard-Warner
Executive Director