Michael Ryan’s Journey at GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix

Michael Ryan is 23 years old with the gift of Down syndrome. I call it the Love Syndrome because he is filled with Love! He blesses us way more than we bless him. He teaches us what truly is important in life! For over 10 years we had been looking and praying for a program that is made for Down Syndrome only. We were introduced to GiGi’s by a beautiful young lady, Amanda, that had been going to GiGi’s for over 2 years. She said Michael Ryan would benefit from GiGi’s Prep and GiGi’s University! Our family thought about it, and decided to call GiGi’s to see what it was all about. Wowwww!!!!, it’s been wonderful beyond words!

Michael Ryan first started in GiGiFIT, which has been wonderful to keep him fit, and meet many new friends! We were told he could have speech therapy and literacy tutoring. We were so happy for him to be able to learn to communicate better!  Wow! he has had both speech therapy and literacy tutoring. Both his speech and his reading skills have improved greatly!

We decided to sign Michael Ryan up for GiGi Prep, which he did get accepted to attend. Wow, he learned so much! He learned how to be responsible, using an alarm clock to get up and get ready for his day. He learned how to cook, clean, and be responsible with tasks. He learned to work together with his friends, to cheer each other up, and help each other out! Michael Ryan graduated from GiGi Prep.

Michael Ryan then succeeded so well; he was accepted into GIGI University! This was quite an accomplishment. He worked so hard in GIGI University! He learned to work with others, and he loved it! His confidence has increased in all areas. He has learned to work with money and be more responsible with many tasks. Michael Ryan graduated from GIGI University May 10, 2025.  We couldn’t be prouder! This was one of the best days of our lives!!

Michael Ryan is so excited to work as an intern in the GiGi’s Studio Café.   Anyone that wants to meet him, come visit him at the Cafe. I have been telling everyone how much we love GiGi’s. Anyone that has Down syndrome from infants to adult- hood, I would highly recommend GiGi’s. Michael Ryan’s journey continues at GiGi’s; friends become family and this journey is beautiful!!!

WE ALL LOVE GIGI’S!!

Submitted by Guest Blogger:

Janne Larrabee