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Man’s Inspiring Recovery from Rare Brain Disease

2/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

After a harrowing trip to the ER, 48-year-old Ryan Alto was diagnosed with Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis, a rare and debilitating brain disease. Enduring seizures, hallucinations, and an eight-week coma, he spent 19 weeks in the hospital. Now, he’s taking a hopeful step forward at a specialized rehabilitation center in Chicago, bolstered by the kindness of a GoFundMe campaign.

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Story summary

After a harrowing trip to the ER, 48-year-old Ryan Alto was diagnosed with Anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis, a rare and debilitating brain disease. Enduring seizures, hallucinations, and an eight-week coma, he spent 19 weeks in the hospital. Now, he’s taking a hopeful step forward at a specialized rehabilitation center in Chicago, bolstered by the kindness of a GoFundMe campaign.