Love for Ryan

Love for Ryan

A health update from Ryan Luelf, and ways to support Ryan, Caroline, and their family.

A message from Ryan

Ryan’s video update will be posted here very soon. His written update is just below.

Donate Through GoFundMe ❤️ Read Ryan’s update

A Personal Health Update & the Journey Ahead ❤️

Ryan Luelf, October 2026

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 revealed that the lymphoma has returned. I’m continuing to work with doctors, health practitioners, and cancer experts to evaluate my options and monitor my health.

You can see my imaging, test results, and photos of my neck and swollen lymph nodes further down this page. The swelling in my neck is how we discovered it, and I’m so grateful I noticed it when I did.

I’m taking this seriously, but I’m not living in fear.

I’m 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:

Read My Full Story Support Our Family Latest Health Updates

Support Ryan & Family

Thank you for supporting our family during this season. Your contributions help cover medical expenses, treatments, healing-related costs, and lost income while Ryan takes time away from life coaching and pickleball coaching to focus completely on his health and healing.

Every contribution, no matter the amount, is deeply appreciated. There is absolutely no obligation to give.

Support Ryan’s Healing and Family Needs

Our GoFundMe fundraiser. Goal: $30,000

Donate Through GoFundMe ❤️

Other ways to give

If you’d rather give directly, any of these reach Ryan and Caroline.

  • Venmo

    Ryan Luelf

    @ryanluelf

    Open Venmo
    Show QR code Venmo QR code for @ryanluelf

  • Zelle

    Recipient: INEFFABLE, LLC

    gracebasedenterprises@gmail.com

    Send from your bank’s app using the email above.

    Why INEFFABLE, LLC? It’s a business owned by Ryan and Caroline Luelf, and it’s their authorized Zelle account for receiving support for Ryan’s healing journey. When you send, you’ll see INEFFABLE, LLC as the recipient instead of Ryan’s name.

    Show QR code Zelle QR code for INEFFABLE, LLC

  • Cash App

    Ryan Luelf

    $RyanLuelf

    Open Cash App
    Show QR code Cash App QR code for $RyanLuelf

  • Banco de Loja

    For friends in Ecuador

    To keep our account details private, Caroline will share the Banco de Loja transfer information with you directly.

    Contact Caroline

  • Cash in Vilcabamba

    For friends nearby

    If you live in or near Vilcabamba and would prefer to give cash, you can give it directly to Caroline. Send her a message and she’ll arrange it with you.

    Contact Caroline

Where your support goes

Ryan is taking an extended break from life coaching and pickleball lessons to focus on his health. That means a significant, temporary loss of income for our family.

At the same time, we have additional costs: medical appointments, diagnostic testing, consultations, treatments, supportive therapies, nutrition, and Ryan’s healing program. We don’t yet know exactly how long this will take or what the total financial impact will be.

Your donations help with our family’s living expenses and healthcare-related costs during this season.

And if you’re not in a position to give financially, please don’t feel even the slightest obligation. Your love, encouragement, and prayers mean just as much to us.

Read My Full Story

Ryan Luelf
A Personal Update on My Health, My Family, and the Journey Ahead

Whether you’ve known me for decades, followed my journey over the years, worked with me, or we’ve only recently connected, I’m grateful you’re taking a few minutes to read this.

My full update covers where this all began in 2015, what’s happening now, why I’m stepping away for a while, our family, and what I believe about life and healing.

Read My Full Story

Chapters

  1. Where It All Began
  2. What’s Happening Now
  3. So Where Do We Go From Here?
  4. Why I’m Stepping Away for a While
  5. Caroline, Our Kids, and Our Family
  6. How You Can Support Us
  7. One Thing I Really Want You to Understand
  8. What I Believe About Life and Healing
  9. What Happens Next?
  10. Thank You

Medical Imaging & Test Results

For anyone who wants more detail, here’s what my recent tests and photos show, explained in plain language.

Where things stand

  • Suspected

    Recurrence of follicular lymphoma, based on my history and the new imaging. This has not been confirmed by a new biopsy.

  • Possible

    Stage III lymphoma, because enlarged lymph nodes appear both above and below my diaphragm. This has not been confirmed by a complete staging evaluation.

  • Reassuring

    No fluid around my lungs or in my abdomen, normal blood counts, normal kidney and liver function, and low inflammation markers.

My history with lymphoma

  1. October 2015

    Diagnosed with stage 4 follicular lymphoma, a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

  2. About 15 months later

    Clear PET scan, with no detectable cancer.

  3. 2017

    The lymphoma returned, again stage 4. It was back in the same places as before, plus three new areas.

  4. April 2018

    Another clear PET scan.

  5. 2018 to 2026

    More than eight years without any known recurrence.

  6. October 2026

    A swollen lymph node in my neck led to new imaging and bloodwork in Loja, Ecuador.

Side view of Ryan’s neck showing swelling below the jaw. Closer side view of Ryan’s neck showing a visible swollen lymph node below the jaw.
The swollen lymph nodes in my neck. Tap or click a photo to enlarge.

Photos of my neck How we found it

After what seemed like a cold with a cough, I noticed swelling around my neck and realized it was a swollen lymph node, something I recognized from my previous experiences with lymphoma.

These photos show that swelling. It’s how we discovered the lymphoma had returned, and it’s what led to the scans below.

Front-view CT scan of Ryan’s head and neck, with two red arrows pointing to enlarged lymph nodes on the left side of his neck.
CT scan of my neck, viewed from the front. The red arrows point to the enlarged lymph nodes. Scans are shown as if you’re facing me, so my left side appears on the right of the image. Tap or click to enlarge.

CT scan of the neck Concerning

  • Multiple enlarged lymph nodes on the left side of my neck.
  • The main cluster measures about 6.5 × 3.0 × 3.0 centimeters (roughly 2.5 × 1.2 × 1.2 inches).
  • More enlarged nodes were found farther down the left side of my neck.
  • The radiologist described these findings as concerning, given my history of lymphoma.

The reassuring part: the report doesn’t describe invasion or major compression of my airway or the large blood vessels in my neck.

Black and white ultrasound image showing several dark, rounded shapes, which are enlarged lymph nodes.
Ultrasound image. The dark, rounded shapes are enlarged lymph nodes. Tap or click to enlarge.

Abdominal ultrasound Concerning

  • Multiple enlarged lymph nodes in my upper abdomen, near my pancreas.
  • These nodes average about 1.5 centimeters (roughly 0.6 inches) across at their narrowest.
  • There’s a question of whether my spleen is mildly enlarged. Lymphoma involvement of the spleen has not been established.

Encouraging: the ultrasound showed no abnormal fluid in my abdomen. That matters to us, because significant abdominal fluid buildup was part of my original cancer journey.

Reassuring

Chest X-ray

  • No visible fluid around my lungs.
  • No major abnormalities identified.
  • No obvious enlarged lymph nodes in the center of my chest.

This is especially meaningful because fluid around my lungs was a major complication when I was first diagnosed in 2015.

Generally reassuring

Bloodwork

October 22, 2026

  • Normal blood counts, with no anemia or low platelets.
  • Normal kidney and liver function.
  • Low inflammation markers.

Normal bloodwork is encouraging, but it doesn’t rule out lymphoma or show how active it may be.

Being considered

Additional blood tests

  • LDH
  • Beta-2 microglobulin
  • Uric acid
  • Albumin

We’ll add these results here if and when they’re done.

What hasn’t been confirmed

I want this page to be medically accurate. The recurrence, the exact subtype, and the stage have not been definitively confirmed by new pathology or a complete staging evaluation.

At this time, I’ve personally chosen not to pursue a biopsy or PET scan. This is based on my concerns about potential risks and my preferences regarding medical testing. I understand this leaves some diagnostic uncertainty.

I’m continuing to seek professional medical guidance, evaluate my options, and monitor my health. We’ll add any new findings to this page.

This is a plain-language summary of Ryan’s reports for family and friends. It isn’t a medical report or medical advice. Last updated October 27, 2026.

Questions & Answers

Answers to common questions about my health, healing journey, family, and how you can help. Tap any question to read the answer.

My health & healing

What’s your diagnosis? What stage is the lymphoma?
  • Recent imaging strongly suggests my follicular lymphoma has returned after more than eight years without a known recurrence.
  • Neck CT: Enlarged lymph node cluster measuring approximately 6.5 cm.
  • Abdominal ultrasound: Enlarged nodes near my pancreas, averaging 1.5 cm.
  • Suspected stage III because enlarged nodes are present above and below my diaphragm.
  • Exact diagnosis and stage aren’t confirmed without further evaluation. Stage IV hasn’t been ruled out.
  • Encouraging findings: No abnormal fluid around my lungs or in my abdomen, and generally normal bloodwork.

You can see the scans and photos in Medical Imaging & Test Results.

How are you feeling physically?

Honestly, great!

  • Still playing several hours of pickleball and teaching lessons.
  • No unusual fatigue, pain, night sweats, or unexplained weight loss.
  • Feeling healthy, active, and energetic.

I’m actually thankful I noticed the swelling in my neck. Otherwise, I might not have known something was happening!

Do you have access to quality medical care in Ecuador?

Absolutely! I’ve been incredibly impressed.

  • Modern hospitals, imaging equipment, and medical facilities.
  • Access to oncologists, specialists, and conventional medical services.
  • Naturopaths, Ayurvedic practitioners, and complementary therapies.
  • Significantly lower costs in my experience. Bloodwork that cost approximately $500 in Oklahoma cost around $60 here.

Specific treatments and specialists may vary by location, but we’ve been pleased with the resources available.

Are you getting a biopsy or PET scan?

Not at this time.

  • I’ve chosen not to pursue another biopsy or PET scan based on my personal preferences and concerns about potential risks.
  • I understand these tests could provide important information about the type, activity, and extent of lymphoma.
  • I’m continuing to evaluate my health and remain open to reconsidering those decisions.
Are you choosing chemotherapy or conventional cancer treatment?

Not currently.

  • My immediate focus is on a holistic approach.
  • I’m not opposed to conventional medicine and have utilized it in the past.
  • I’ve been referred to oncologists in Loja and Vilcabamba.
  • If my circumstances change, I’m open to reconsidering treatment options.

I’m making the decisions I believe are best for me while recognizing that other people may choose differently.

What’s your healing approach, and who’s guiding you?

I’m focusing on my physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

  • Nutrition, rest, meditation, and emotional work.
  • Exploring herbs, supplements, IV therapies, lymphatic massage, and other complementary practices.
  • Working with local practitioners, including Dr. Teshna.
  • Reconnecting with Theo Hansen, who supported me during my previous cancer journey.
  • Continuing medical consultations and monitoring.

I’m carefully considering which approaches to use. Complementary therapies aren’t established cures for lymphoma, and some require medical supervision.

How will you know whether you’re improving?
  • Paying attention to symptoms, energy, and overall physical well-being.
  • Additional bloodwork before my 35-day sabbatical.
  • Daily support from practitioners and planned weekly doctor check-ins.
  • Reassessing testing and imaging after the retreat.

I recognize that feeling good and having normal bloodwork don’t necessarily mean lymphoma is improving. Objective medical evaluation is important for determining disease response.

My 35-day sabbatical

Where will you be, and why are you unplugging?

I’ll be staying at a peaceful healing space about 20 minutes from home.

  • Private accommodations on friends’ property.
  • Two health practitioners nearby offering daily support.
  • Caroline and the kids can visit anytime.
  • No phone, internet, social media, screens, or work.
  • Rest, meditation, reading, drawing, stretching, nature, and simply being.

Why 35 days? Approximately 30 days following my chosen protocol, plus five days to transition back.

I’ll be reachable through my hosts in emergencies. If I need more time, I’ll evaluate that when the time comes.

What if your condition changes during the retreat?
  • My hosts will be checking on me daily.
  • Local doctors are expected to check on me weekly.
  • I’ll have access to medical help if concerning symptoms develop.
  • Caroline can contact me through my hosts at any time.

I’m unplugging from technology, not from necessary medical care.

Caroline, our kids & family

How are Caroline and the kids doing?

We’re navigating this together with love.

  • Our older children know what’s happening and are processing their emotions.
  • We’re choosing not to share the medical specifics with Arrow, who’s turning five.
  • Caroline has wonderful community support and will remain closely involved in decisions.
  • Trusted practitioners and friends will help with my daily care.

One request: Please treat our family normally, and be especially mindful of conversations around Arrow. A smile, a hug, and some love go a long way!

How can local friends help?

Reach out to Caroline on WhatsApp. Possible ways to help:

  • Transportation or errands.
  • Playdates and activities for the kids.
  • Practical support when needed.
  • Encouragement, friendship, and simply being there.

Caroline can let you know what would be helpful. Please understand if she isn’t able to respond immediately.

Contact Caroline

Financial support & updates

Why are you fundraising, and what will donations cover?

Our $30,000 goal is intended to help cover approximately three to four months of:

  • Lost income from pausing life coaching and pickleball lessons.
  • Medical appointments, testing, imaging, and consultations.
  • Supportive therapies, practitioner sessions, nutrition, supplements, and other healing-related expenses.
  • Travel for medical care and our family’s everyday living expenses.

We don’t know exactly how long this journey will take, but this support would give our family valuable breathing room.

How can people contribute or stay updated?

Financial support: GoFundMe, Zelle, Venmo, Cash App, and Banco de Loja. Local friends may also contribute cash directly to Caroline.

Other support: Share our story, offer practical help, send encouragement, or keep our family in your thoughts and prayers.

Updates: Caroline or Addison may post here during my sabbatical. I plan to share more after returning, including reflections from my journal.

There’s absolutely no obligation to donate. Every form of love and support is appreciated.

My perspective & personal decisions

What if people disagree with your approach or want to suggest something?

I understand completely.

  • Caroline and I have years of personal experience researching and navigating cancer.
  • We don’t claim to know everything or believe everyone should follow our approach.
  • We’re doing our best to make thoughtful decisions aligned with our values.
  • I welcome research, inspiring stories, and helpful suggestions, without expectations that I’ll read, respond, or act on everything.

You don’t have to agree with my decisions to love and support me.

Are you afraid? What do you believe about healing and life?

I’m human. This is serious. And of course I want to be here for a very long time!

But I’m approaching this chapter with tremendous hope, confidence, and gratitude.

My previous experiences taught me not to panic, to remain curious, to trust myself while staying open to learning, and to care for my entire being.

For me, healing is about more than physical health. It’s also about emotional freedom, peace, consciousness, and remembering who I truly am.

I believe I’m a spiritual being temporarily experiencing life through this physical body. That perspective brings me tremendous peace.

Do I know exactly how this will unfold? No.

But I genuinely believe I can come through it stronger, healthier, wiser, and with even more life to enjoy.

And if there’s one thing I’d love for everyone to remember while I’m away, it’s this:

Life is precious. The present moment is a gift. Forgive, let go, make peace, express your love, receive love, and stop giving so much energy to things that ultimately don’t matter.

Please don’t feel sorry for me. Just love me and my family. ❤️

Answers from Ryan, October 2026.

Latest Updates

While Ryan is offline, Caroline and Addison will share news here. Check back anytime.

  1. Loading updates…

Contact & Local Support

Ryan is offline for a while

Beginning in the first week of November, Ryan is stepping away for approximately 35 days, possibly a little longer, to rest and focus on his healing.

  • Calls
  • Texts
  • WhatsApp
  • Email
  • Social media

He’s pausing life coaching for at least six weeks and pickleball lessons through November and December, with the hope of returning in January if he’s feeling well enough.

Please follow this website for updates rather than contacting Ryan directly. If you reach out and don’t hear back, he’s not ignoring you. He’s choosing to be fully present with himself.

Reaching Caroline

The best way to reach Caroline is WhatsApp. Tap below and it opens a chat with her.

Caroline’s contact details will be posted here soon.

Caroline is balancing work, the kids, and a lot more right now, so she may not always be able to respond right away. Thank you for your patience and kindness.

Helping locally in Vilcabamba

If you live nearby, practical help for Caroline and the kids would mean so much:

  • A ride somewhere
  • Help with the children
  • Inviting Arrow over for a playdate
  • Simply checking in on the family

And if you see Caroline or the kids around town, give them some love. A hug, a smile, a little encouragement.

A note about Arrow

We’re not sharing the medical specifics with our youngest, Arrow, at this time. If you’re spending time around our family, please be mindful of what you say in front of him. We really appreciate that.

Ideas and resources

If you have personal experiences, helpful resources, or ideas you believe might be useful, you’re welcome to share them with Caroline.

We’re already exploring many approaches and working with multiple practitioners, so we won’t be able to review every suggestion or pursue every possibility. We’re going to listen, learn, use discernment, and make the best decisions we can for our family.