In Loving Memory of Ryker Jay Lutz.
Ryker was diagnosed with Anaplastic Astrocytoma Grade 3. Astrocytoma is a cancer of the brain, it arises from “astrocytes”, a type of cell. Astrocytomas can be benign but in this case, it was malign. Grade 3 means it grows at a fast pace and it has “tentacle” like branches, making it extremely hard to remove during surgery and it requires more aggressive treatments.
The Lutz Family received the devastating news on August 14th, 2018, after spending several days at the hospital trying to understand what was wrong with Ryker. He was additionally diagnosed with Hydrocephalus, a buildup of CSF, Cerebrospinal Fluid, which usually increases the pressure inside the skull, causing debilitating symptoms. Ryker’s Hydrocephalus was caused by the brain tumor.
He was a teeny tiny 2 months old at diagnosis. A brain biopsy was needed as well as a G-tube, as the tumor made it extremely hard for Ryker to put on weight.
Ryker completed 24 hard rounds of chemotherapy and endured 6 different surgeries.
He passed away in his loving Parents’ arms, surrounded by immense love, on March 5th, 2019, at 11:40 AM. He feels no more pain, he’s free of any tubes. No more surgeries or ouchies. Ryker was 9 months old.
Here’s my Tribute to Ryker, I followed his journey from the very beginning and shared his story 2 months after he was diagnosed. His deep blue eyes truly touched my heart. Ryker loved life and had such a touching smile.
Prayers are appreciated for the Lutz Family in this time of Despair.
Rest in Paradise, Warrior Ryker Jay.
If you’d like to help, Ryker’s GofundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/rykerjaylutz
Warriors Of Gold 