Surviving Ryan

Ryan Ferguson, age 21, died suddenly from complications of a heat stroke on June 25, 2000. A communications major at the University of Arizona, he planned to graduate in 2001. People were drawn to Ryan by his ready smile, and they stayed to enjoy his sense of humor and share his zest for life, earning him a richness in friends beyond his years. More than anything, Ryan loved being the oldest brother and friend. Surviving Ryan is a tribute to Ryan and a heartfelt guide to the first year after a devastating loss. It is targeted to reach people who are grieving and also the family and friends who want to help. It includes quick checklists to use as immediate reference tools. Using narratives, personal journal entries, excerpts from Ryan’s funeral service, and letters the family received, as well as clinical information about grief, Surviving Ryan tells the story of how his family learned to survive him. Woven throughout the book is the evidence of how they were lifted by their Christian faith.