My Name is Ryan

Told through the eyes of his father, My Name is Ryan is the hopeful and heartwarming story of the transformation of a boy with Down syndrome, into a man with Down syndrome.

We follow Ryan’s journey through adulthood as he faces the daunting challenges of moving into the workforce, finding a home, the inevitable loss of loved ones, and the joy of welcoming new family members and a tribe of nephews and nieces, who know him lovingly as ‘Uncle Barnas’.

This is book two for Gerry Clarke.

Ryan’s Rainbow, first published in 2003, and taking us from Ryan’s birth through to his 18th birthday, is included in this edition.

Together they provide the full picture of Ryan’s life to the age of 40, a life of joy in the heart of a large and loving family.

My Name is Ryan is a celebration not only of Ryan, but of all people with disabilities, their families, their carers, and the community organisations that provide the dedication and support to ensure they live rich and fulfi lling lives.

It removes some of the myths, mysteries and stereotypes that surround raising a child and young adult with a disability and is sure to inspire parents and siblings facing similar challenges.

Ryan’s story will touch your heart, inspire your spirit, and remind you to cherish the profound beauty in the simple everyday moments in life.

My Name is Ryan will make you smile, and then smile again.

My Name is Ryan is Gerry Clarke’s second published work. Gerry’s first published book was Ryan’s Rainbow, which became a best-seller in South Australia and is incorporated in this book.

After retiring in 2023, Gerry’s primary goal was to complete writing this book in time for Ryan’s 40th birthday in October 2025.

Gerry enjoyed a long and successful career in the public and tertiary sectors, where he was able to use his writing and people skills to good effect. Gerry worked in a variety of human resources, communications, internal culture building and administration roles in the employment, education, health and aged care fields.

Gerry is married to Joyce, and they are proud parents to Matthew (and Shelley), Dale (and Amy), Ryan, Brett (and Rebecca), Patrick (and Kyleigh) and Lauren (and Will). In their retirement years, Gerry and Joyce are sharing in the joy of watching their ten beautiful grandchildren make their way in the world.

Gerry is a keen sportsman, with many achievements in a long basketball career. Gerry currently enjoys the challenge of playing lawn bowls.

Gerry has helped to raise thousands of dollars for many not-for-profit organisations, schools and sporting groups in his role as quizmaster.

Gerry has achieved his goal of publishing My Name is Ryan in time for Ryan’s 40th birthday. It is an achievement of which he is justifiably proud.