Back in November of 2017, the parents of Ryland Ward didn't know if the little boy would survive the gunshot wounds he suffered in the Sutherland Springs Chruch shooting.

The great news is that this little boy just celebrated his 7th birthday! Ryland's mother, Chancie McMahan told KWTX that she couldn't be more proud of her son. Ryland lost his stepmom and two sisters in the mass shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs. 26 parishioners lost their lives in that shooting on November 5th, 2017.

Ryland was shot 5 times that day. In the elbow, twice in the abdomen, and two more times in the leg. He spent two months in a San Antonio hospital enduring multiple surgeries. When Ryland was finally released from the hospital he was given a ride home in the front seat of a firetruck that was driven by the man who played a part in saving his life, firefighter Rusty Duncan. Duncan is still a part of the young boy's life as his karate instructor.

We wanted to wish Ryland all the best and celebrate with an update on his recovery. We wish him a very happy birthday! Ryland celebrated his 7th birthday with his Dad on January 5th. His Mom is planning a celebration at her home next weekend.

 

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