Run for Ryan ski event to commemorate seven years since disappearance

Scott Shtuka, Ryan’s father, describes what has become a tight knit circle of friends and family, as well as local residents who have shown up for searches, continued to spread the word, and come out for the annual commemoration gathering every year.

“The people that we have met, they’ve been incredible and behind us,” Scott said. “I mean, words can’t express how they have supported us. And solidarity. It’s a blessing.”

Participants in the Run for Ryan will gather at the top of the Sunburst chair lift at 3:00 p.m. Sunday (Feb. 16) afternoon and ski down the 5 Mile run together. They’ll then gather for food and beverages afterwards.

Ryan’s mother Heather says the event is a reflection of what their son would have enjoyed doing, and that taking part in it softens some of the severity of the anniversary of his disappearance.

“It feels like that sort of mimics what he would have liked to do,” Heather said. “And for us, I think it’s very gentle on our hearts. Having that day come and being surrounded by the community. So I think that, although heavy, it’s not as heavy as I think it could be.”

Anybody with information about Ryan Shtuka’s disappearance is urged to contact Kamloops RCMP at 250-828-3000.

by Dylana Kneeshaw

Run for Ryan ski event to commemorate seven years since disappearance

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