GREENWOOD, Ind. (WISH) — Two months ago Bryce Ryan, a 32-year-old man who deals with both autism and Asperger Syndrome, was rushed to Indiana University Methodist hospital after falling and breaking his neck in several places.

He avoided the worst case scenario, but was kept bed bound at the hospital because of his injuries.

Eventually, while trying to recover, he developed a bed sore.

That new wound now the only thing standing between him and taking his next step and going to rehab.

“It’s so hard for me to smile right now because of the situation I’m in,” he said. “Being in here so long it just puts a damper on you.”

His mother, Marcia, says he started feeling down and depressed after going through his ninth surgery and doubted  if he could ever get better and out of the hospital.

“He’s been having a hard time trying to stay positive and motivated,” she said.

That was until he started getting cards with encouraging words from people in his Greenwood community and the Franklin Township area.

When his mom saw how it lifted his spirits, she told News 8 she realized it could make the difference in how fast Bryce is able to heal.

It’s given him something to look forward to.

“It’s really what he needs right now is just to feel that support and that love from his community,” Marcia said.

Bryce and Marcia say you can send cards to his room at IU Methodist

• Attn: Bryce Ryan
• Rm: 6044
• 1701 N. Senate Avenue 
• Indianapolis, IN 46202

If you’d like to set up a visit in person email Marcia Ryan at: marcia.ryan@yahoo.com.