As a parent, I want to introduce my oldest son to you. His name is Ryan Bear and he is 25 years old. He has Wolf-Hirschhorn Syndrome which has limited his mental and physical growth. He stands about four feet tall and weighs roughly 75 pounds.
During the day, Ryan attends the Logan Center Adult Day Program. Ryan is full of hugs and enjoys socializing with others. He is also a big Notre Dame Basketball fan and really enjoys music.
I bring Ryan to your attention as we have the unique opportunity to introduce him into your child’s school and life. Even though Ryan has a limited vocabulary, he demonstrates a sense of love and compassion with countless people.
Throughout his life, Ryan has been instrumental in helping others better understand the capabilities of those labeled with disabilities. He has heightened the sense of empathy of those who interact with him, and Ryan has become a friend to many.
As part of Logan’s Community Program, Ryan will visit your child’s school twice a month. His visits will begin in April. Ryan will participate in school events, visit classrooms (he was involved in Penn’s Young Adult Program until he graduated at the age of 21), and probably will be seen moving up and down the hallways in his wheelchair.
It is my hope that your child will take advantage of getting to know Ryan. If he/she has any questions, please encourage those thoughts. I am here to serve as a resource and answer those questions. I am sure we share the desire that our world will become a better place by embracing God’s intention for us to grow in our understanding and empathy of one another.
My direct phone number is 812-204-5375 and email address is
[email protected].