Community rallying to give student with cancer an unforgettable graduation party

“It was really a big blow to hear that, but we’re here to help and support him and stand behind him,” said Molly Harbst, who has served as a guidance counselor, cheerleader and friend to the Conley family for the past four years.

Last month, Ryan surprised his classmates at a pep rally, where school administrators presented him with his high school diploma.

“His friends were there with him. [They brought] him out into the crowd and everyone went crazy, clapping, screaming, yelling, crying,” Harbst said. “It was really better than our typical graduation, so it was nice to have that all at once and see the look on his face.”

The celebration of Ryan's achievements inside and outside school are set to continue with some help from Jamie's Dream Team.