Spokane father battles rare, aggressive skin disease

A 38-year-old father of six, Ryan Becker, is facing a life-threatening skin disease. This rare illness covers about 50% of his body with painful black lesions. Diagnosed in January, Ryan has seen his condition worsen rapidly, with doctors struggling to find effective treatment. Ryan lives in Spokane, Washington, and has been battling this disease for over three months. It began with fatigue and severe acne, followed by the emergence of sores that have spread across his body. Dermatologists believe he may have a unique form of pyoderma gangrenosum, usually limited to the legs. However, for Ryan, the sores have reached his arms, chest, back, and even his palms. His wife, Mikkel, noted changes in Ryan's personality as the disease developed. He made poor financial decisions, which they believe could be linked to the illness. Ryan's condition has caused immense physical pain comparable to that of burn victims. Despite visits to several top medical centers, including the Mayo Clinic, Ryan has received little clarity about his disease. Doctors predict he may have only six months to live. Ryan’s condition has also led to complications such as seizures and severe mental distress, often resulting from the treatments he has received. To cover growing medical expenses, the family has started a GoFundMe campaign, which has raised over $33,000. They face uncertainty regarding health insurance and treatment costs as Ryan seeks help from experts in pyoderma gangrenosum. Despite their challenges, Ryan and Mikkel maintain a positive outlook. They continue to travel for medical care while caring for their six children, hoping for answers and a cure for his rare and aggressive condition.