Ryan Cappel, Orwigsburg

Ryan Cappel, 18, of Orwigsburg, was involved in a severe automobile accident and was transported to Geisinger by Life Flight® medical helicopter. He suffered serious injuries, including a spleen injury and a complex laceration on his left leg. Interventional radiologists performed an embolization on his spleen, saving the organ. The laceration on his leg was further complicated when he developed compartment syndrome, requiring seven surgeries and the loss of the soleus muscle in his leg. Orthopaedic doctors told Ryan he might not play sports again. However, through hard work and determination, Ryan recovered and returned to play high school football and baseball.

Watch Ryan's story

Donations to Children’s Miracle Network at Geisinger have provided comfort items such as recliners and sofa beds in all rooms at the children’s hospital, which were used by Ryan’s parents during his stay. Gifts also have helped fund activities and programs for the Child Life Services, which helped make Ryan’s extended stay in the hospital a little more tolerable for him and his family, especially during the holidays.