A Personal Health Update & the Journey Ahead ❤️
Many of you know that in October 2015, I was diagnosed with stage 4 lymphoma. After an incredibly challenging journey, including a recurrence in 2017, I received a clear PET scan in 2018 and have enjoyed more than eight wonderful years of life without any known cancer recurrence.
Unfortunately, I’m now facing another serious health challenge.
After discovering a swollen lymph node in my neck, I underwent several medical evaluations and imaging scans here in Ecuador. The results have raised significant concerns that lymphoma has returned. I’m continuing to work with doctors, evaluate my options, and monitor my health. You can see my imaging and test results further down this page.
I’m taking this seriously, but I’m not living in fear.
I’m already working with medical doctors and exploring a comprehensive approach to healing that includes appropriate medical care, nutrition, rest, supportive therapies, and caring for myself physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Beginning sometime in early November, I’ll be stepping away from life coaching, pickleball lessons, social media, and essentially all outside communication for approximately 35 days. I’ll be staying nearby at a friend’s peaceful healing space, completely unplugging and giving myself the time, attention, and environment I feel I need right now.
During that time, I will not be answering calls, texts, WhatsApp messages, emails, or social media messages.
Caroline and the kids will still be able to visit me, and we’ll share updates here on LoveForRyan.com whenever possible.
How You Can Help Our Family
One of the realities of this decision is that stepping away from coaching for several weeks, possibly longer, means a significant loss of income for our family. At the same time, we’re already incurring additional expenses for medical testing, appointments, consultations, treatments, and supportive therapies.
So, for those who have been asking how they can help, we’ve created opportunities to support us financially through this website.
If you’re willing and able to contribute, we would be incredibly grateful. There is absolutely no obligation, and every amount helps.
For our friends here in Ecuador, practical support for Caroline and the kids would also mean so much. Whether that’s helping with transportation, spending time with the children, inviting Arrow over for a playdate, or simply showing our family some extra love.
One important request: We’re choosing not to discuss the medical specifics with our youngest son, Arrow, at this time. Please be mindful of conversations around him and respect that decision.
One Last Thing
Please don’t feel sorry for me.
Love me. Love our family. Support us however you feel called.
This is serious, and I recognize there are no guarantees. But I’m approaching this experience with an incredible amount of hope, confidence, gratitude, and love.
I genuinely believe I’ll come through this healthier, stronger, wiser, and with even more life to experience and share.
For now, I’m choosing to put myself first, receive support, and give myself the space to focus on healing.
Thank you for being part of our lives, for caring about our family, and for walking alongside us during this chapter.
With so much love and gratitude,
Ryan Luelf
For more background, medical updates, and the complete story of my journey: