A few weeks ago, while planning for “Fishin’ for Kids”, I stumbled upon a bass tournament I had never heard of before on my social media feed, and it piqued my interest. I reached out to the organizers, who were complete strangers but have since become friends. We’ve had extensive conversations about their experiences, and what I learned was truly heartbreaking but also moving. They have chosen to turn their pain into something beautiful, much like my friend Burt Poche. I genuinely believe that Ryder, Daniel, and Shelby will significantly impact many people's lives in their journey to healing.

Ryder Kade Vosbury entered the world on July 19, 2022, weighing 7 lbs 14 oz, a beautiful and healthy baby boy. His arrival brought immense joy, especially to his older sister, Paisley, as they began to cherish the moments of their new family of four. The laughter of their children filled their home. Daniel could not wait to share his passion of fishing with Ryder. They started planning family vacations, dreaming of the memories they would create together. They envisioned beach trips where Ryder would build sandcastles alongside Paisley, and family hikes where we would explore nature together, capturing every precious moment on camera.

However, November 20, 2022, is a date forever etched in their hearts. It began like any other day, but it quickly turned into a nightmare. Their alarm goes off, they get up to start the day and the first thing they do is check on their baby. But this morning quickly turned into a nightmare, waking up to find their precious child cold and lifeless. It was a moment that altered their lives irrevocably. The shock and disbelief were overwhelming as they desperately tried to revive him, doing everything they could while waiting for the medics. But despite their frantic efforts, it wasn’t enough. They rushed him to the ER, but despite their hopes and prayers, he didn’t make it. They left their four-month-old at the hospital and drove home to face a new reality is a pain that lingers, a wound that feels as fresh today as it did that fateful day. I can’t imagine the pain.

Daniel and Shelby Vonsbury, *Grand Cane Louisiana*

Many of us often overlook the value of life, and I admit that I am one of those people.

Everyday interactions can trigger memories they never anticipated, like comments about their daughter or suggestions for another child, each one feeling like a blow to the gut. The world continues to move forward, but they told me they often find themselves stuck in a moment of profound loss. The events of that day replay in their minds endlessly, haunting them with “what-ifs” and unanswered questions. Even after two years, at times the pain remains like it just happened yesterday.

Each holiday season brings its own set of challenges; waking up every Christmas to an empty stocking is a stark reminder of the joy that was lost. The laughter that once filled their home is now often replaced with silence, and the memories they created with Ryder are bittersweet, tinged with sorrow.

Their lives have been irrevocably changed, and they now navigate a journey that no parent should ever have to endure. The path of grief is winding and unpredictable, filled with moments of despair and fleeting glimpses of hope. In their search for healing, they started the “Reelin’ for Ryder” Bass Tournament as a way to honor Ryder, heal, and keep his memory alive.

“Reelin For Ryder” will held tomorrow at North Bend State Park.