Ryan John Hunt .  With heartbreak we announce the passing of our much-loved Ryan.  Ryan went to heaven on October 16 th , 2020, at the age of 15.  He courageously battled Hunter Syndrome, MPS Type II.  He was born on April 12, 2005, to loving parents Jonathan and Marie Hunt and was adored by his older brother and sister Adam and Jana.

Ryan was born in Woodstock, Ontario, moved to Iowa, USA when he was 15 months old.  Prior to his second birthday he was diagnosed with Hunter Syndrome.  He displayed his infectious charm and left a notable impression on many hearts during trips to the hospital, therapy sessions and home care visits, in both Iowa and Nova Scotia.  Doctors, nurses, therapists and home care providers have often referred to Ryan as one of their favourites.  Ryan attended Clayton Ridge schools from pre-school to grade 3.  He loved going to school.  Ryan showed his excitement with squeals and giggles when he interacted with students and staff who were amazing friends and advocates for him.  The years Ryan spent living in Iowa were a busy and active part of his live.  He enjoyed family vacations to Florida, Arizona, South Dakota, a Caribbean cruise and many trips to visit family in Ontario, Nova Scotia and British Columbia.  Because of Ryan his family experienced a trip of a lifetime to Hawaii, that included helicopter rides, luaus and other special memories through Make a Wish.  He enthusiastically cheered for Adam and Jana during their sporting events and loved going on the road trips.  Ryan joined the fun during picnics at the pond, swimming at the pool and riding on the John Deere Gator.  At home with his family, Ryan was active in making his family's life enjoyable.  He played with his blocks, stacked cups, emptied cupboards and shredded toilet paper.  Ryan appreciated his big brother Adam's ability to make him laugh on demand and his big sister Jana's patience and willingness to always be his playmate.

Ryan enjoyed Sunday School and his many good friends there were sure to include him.  His favorite activity at church was marching to "The Lord's Army" song with the other children.

Inspired by determination, a fun event named the River Run for Ryan was held for several years.  These fundraisers brought people together, raised awareness of Hunter Syndrome and over $100,000 of research funding.

Despite the physical challenges and limitations that Ryan faced in his life, he never allowed that to define him.  His challenges were secondary to the extraordinary experiences and relationships in his beautiful life.  One such friendship resulted in Ryan having a race horse named after him.

When Ryan was 10, he moved with his family to Nova Scotia.  This move allowed a new stage in his life that focused more on being together with his family.  Ryan enjoyed day trips, family dinners, and drop in visits from loved ones.

In this phase of Ryan's life, his healthcare team and caregivers became an important part of his daily routine.  Lifetime friends were made at the IWK, especially during his extended stays on PMU.  Ryan appreciated the amazing care he received at home from his special RN and CCA team that allowed him to be with his family.  Ryan's palliative care team provided much comfort and guidance to his family throughout this phase of his life.

Family was a big part of Ryan's life.  Ryan had many special people in his life.  Ryan was cherished and adored by his parents, brother and sister, grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins and many close friends.

He is survived by his parents Jonathan and Marie (Kelly) Hunt, brother Adam, sister Jana, grandmother Diane Kelly, grandparents Robert and Francie Hunt and his great grandmothers Francis Milligan and Eileen Flanagan.  He was predeceased by his grandfather Hugh Kelly, Uncle Terry Hunt and cousin Harrison Kelly.  MacDiarmid's Funeral Home has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.  Public visitation will be held at Ettinger Funeral Home in Shubenacadie, NS on Wednesday, October 21 st from 6-8pm.  Separate times have been arranged for family visitation and private funeral.  Donations can be made to https://www.theisaacfoundation.com/