STEVE STIVERS

There is so much negativity today in the news and everywhere we look that it is always nice when we can pause to recognize good things that are happening in our community.  I would like to take the opportunity to use this blog to highlight some of the positive events that are happening in Central Ohio.

This month I would like to recognize, Ryan Hardy.  Ryan’s long, difficult journey finally came to an end when he joyously rang the bell to signify his final chemotherapy treatment last month at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.  He was diagnosed with a brain tumor at the young age of two and was later diagnosed with leukemia when he was only eight years old.

Ryan was extremely courageous, enduring treatments for almost 10 years with the love and support of family, friends and the hospital’s staff. Ryan and the people around him never gave up hope. He tried to live life as normally as possible by taking part in activities like playing on the youth football team.  Click here to learn more about Ryan’s courageous battle: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W93NdSs4UeQ&feature=youtu.be&noredirect=1

Ryan’s story reminds us that we shouldn’t take life for granted. With faith, hope and endurance we can overcome many obstacles in life. I am proud to represent people like Ryan Hardy in Ohio’s 15th Congressional District. I commend him for his courage and am happy to hear that he was able to finally ring the bell.