Ryan, 10

Ryan’s oversized appetite led doctors at Boston Children’s to discover he had a rare, currently incurable condition that makes the "batteries" of his cells work overtime. At the hospital, researchers work to help find answers. His care team helps him balance nutrition with the demands of a super-charged metabolism that burns 4,000 calories a day—or more on days he plays soccer.

Ryan is the ultimate team player, known for his goalkeeping skills and for inviting everyone to join in the fun. His determination and big imagination inspired a unique feature on his gear—a badge for a mission to Mars with a soccer-loving, African penguin!