Meet John Ryan, the 2026 Children’s Miracle Network New Jersey Champion
For children with complex medical needs, access to the right care at the right time can change everything. That truth is at the heart of John Ryan’s journey, and part of why he has been named the 2026 New Jersey Children’s Miracle Network Champion for Children’s Specialized Hospital (CSH).
John Ryan represents not just his own story, but those of thousands of children across New Jersey and beyond who rely on Children’s Specialized Hospital for expert, family-centered care. Born with a neurodevelopmental disorder GATAD2B (GAND), a genetic disorder so rare that less than 500 cases are known worldwide, John Ryan faces incredible challenges.
GAND effects how the brain develops and functions, causing developmental delays, especially with speech and communication; low muscle tone and limited motor skills, affecting movement and coordination; behavioral and social challenges and varied levels of learning differences.
John Ryan’s parents, Emeline and Joao, initially noticed his low muscle tone when he was not able to hold his head up and was not attempting to sit; two important milestones for a five-month-old. They brought him to CSH for physical and occupational therapy which led to the genetic testing at 18 months that revealed GAND.
Now five-years-old, John Ryan continues regular therapy at CSH and is making incredible progress. He can sit up, hold his head up, and walk independently. He loves his therapy sessions at CSH, especially the swing. Emeline describes her family’s experience at CSH as transformational.
“We have seen him go from a baby with really no ability to moments where he’s pulling himself up and standing up.” She continued, “You think you go to these therapy sessions for your child, but at CSH, the therapists help me, and my whole family, as much as they do John Ryan.”
John Ryan’s sister, Giuliana, helps her brother during aquatic therapy at Children’s Specialized Hospital.
As the 2026 New Jersey CMN Champion, John Ryan and his family will help raise awareness around the critical need to fund specialized care for children like him and over 44,000 others treated at CSH each year. Through interviews, event appearances, and a social media presence, John Ryan and his family will advocate for children with unique health challenges so more families can access the care their children need.
“We are honored to have John Ryan, Emeline, Joao, and Giuliana represent Children’s Specialized Hospital as the 2026 CMN Champion family,” said Alissa Memoli, President and Chief Development Officer at Children’s Specialized Hospital Foundation. “Our mission is to support children and families like theirs by raising funds that play a vital role in their outcomes. John Ryan’s story is truly a testament to the impact our community of supporters makes.”
Children’s Miracle Network raises funds for 170 children’s hospitals that support the health of 10 million kids each year across the US and Canada. Donations and funds raised through their retail partner campaigns go to local member hospitals to fund critical life-saving treatments and healthcare services, along with research, pediatric medical equipment, child life services, and financial assistance for families who could not otherwise afford these healthcare services.
Join us at our signature CSH Foundation events like our 10th Annual Golf Open or 20th Annual Walk n’ Roll to meet this year’s CMN Champion and learn about his journey toward a brighter future.
When you give to Children's Specialized Hospital (CSH) Foundation, 100% of your donation supports the programs and services of CSH that are transforming the lives of children with unique health challenges. CSH Foundation receives philanthropic support from community members who share our mission and commitment to ensuring that all children receive the life-changing care they need to reach their full potential. To help or learn more, visit https://give2csh.org.
About Children's Miracle Network Hospitals
Children's Miracle Network Hospitals was founded more than 40 years ago with the vision to Change Kids' Health, Change the Future. We've raised over $9 billion for 170 children's hospitals by empowering and engaging with local communities and businesses—and we're not done yet. All donations benefit local member hospitals to fund what's needed most, like critical life-saving treatments and healthcare services, innovative research, vital pediatric medical equipment, child life services that put kids' and families' minds at ease during difficult hospital stays, and financial services for families who could not otherwise afford these health services. Together we can change kids' health. Together we can change the future. To learn more about Children's Miracle Network Hospitals and your local member children's hospital, visit cmnhospitals.org.
