Ryder Scelza, a 21-year-old from Rocky Hill, Connecticut, passed away in his mother’s arms after a courageous battle with glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer. His mother, Linda Scelza, revealed that she comforted him by saying it was “OK to go,” moments before he took his last breaths. Ryder had been fighting the disease since March 2022, undergoing multiple surgeries and treatments until the tumors became inoperable.
In the months leading up to his death, Ryder was placed in a medically induced coma and lost the ability to communicate. After spending approximately four months at Cobalt Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, he returned home in early 2024, where he received around-the-clock care from his family, including his twin brother, Reno. Linda reflected on the profound impact of music during Ryder’s illness, particularly the songs of Taylor Swift, which brought him comfort. “Hearing the music would make him visibly relax,” she stated.
Despite the challenges he faced, Ryder remained resilient. “This boy, he fought, he beat every odd there was to beat with the kind of brain cancer he had,” Linda said. “He fought and fought.” The family had hoped that Taylor Swift would reach out to Ryder during his struggle, but although that did not happen, her music provided him with a source of strength.
Ryder’s sister, Alyssa Scelza, expressed her gratitude for being present during his final moments. “I do believe he heard her and it gave him the comfort to let go,” she said. Linda recounted how she slept next to Ryder every night, holding his hand over his heart, and felt that he waited for her reassurance to release him from his suffering.
Throughout his ordeal, Ryder demonstrated remarkable strength. He was dedicated to raising awareness about glioblastoma and the need for further research into the disease. “He will always be remembered for being a fighter,” Alyssa affirmed. “What he did was for everyone else … the reason he did anything was for love.”
Ryder’s family detailed how he expressed wishes for his funeral, requesting the release of butterflies and a horse-drawn carriage for his casket. He also hoped for women pallbearers and a seat left empty for his mother. His cousin, Alfred Scelza, noted that Ryder had a deep affection for Disney and wanted his loved ones to “live their lives to the fullest capacity and fight … fearless.”
Linda Scelza dedicated herself to caring for Ryder, having not worked in almost four years. Despite being an identical twin, Reno has been tested and shows no evidence of glioblastoma. Ryder’s journey included over 50 emergency room visits and numerous hospital stays, yet he continued to inspire others with his unwavering spirit.
Joy Savulak, a spokesperson for Gaylord Specialty Healthcare, where Ryder also received treatment, praised his impact on those around him. “During his time at Gaylord, Ryder touched the lives of every person who had the privilege of meeting him,” she stated. “We will always remember his strength, determination, and his amazing, infectious smile.”
As the family grapples with their loss, Linda shared that Ryder’s message would be, “never give up.” In his memory, she encouraged others to advocate for their health and seek support. “If you need something, call Linda,” she said, reflecting on the support Ryder would want for others.
Ryder Scelza’s legacy will endure as a testament to his courage and love. His family plans to honor his memory by sharing his story and raising awareness about glioblastoma.
