August 17, 2026 Update

Today, we had planned to visit an LTAC facility, but while en route, the doctor called to let us know Austin was being taken into surgery. We changed course immediately and headed straight to the hospital.

The surgery was performed to reattach the section of his skull that was removed on August 7th when he was flown in. That piece was initially removed to relieve pressure and allow his brain space to swell without causing further damage. When neurosurgeons remove a portion of the skull, it acts as a release valve. Because the skull is rigid bone, any swelling or fluid naturally pushes brain tissue toward that opening—the path of least resistance.

Austin’s latest CT scan showed that his brain was pushing toward that opening, so the team determined it was time to reattach the skull. During the procedure, the surgeon successfully cleared fluid on the left side, as well as blood and a blood clot. The surgery went very well and the CT scan after surgery looked good!

Post-Surgery Update & Progress:

-Recovery: Austin is stable, recovering well, and comfortable on pain medication. His vitals look great before and after surgery.

-Small Victories: His eyes were fluttering, and he even moved his left pointer finger while I was holding his hand!

Fundraising & Community Support:

We know so many of you are eager to organize fundraising or charity events to help, and we are beyond grateful. If you are thinking of or want to plan an event, please reach out to his father, Chris Ryan, before organizing anything. A few people have already begun this process, and we want to keep everything coordinated. We will post all event details directly on this site as soon as they are finalized.

Thank you all so much for your continued support, prayers, and positive energy!