Nick and Sean Bryan’s Story: A Journey of Strength and Giving Back

Columbus, Ohio residents Nick and Sean Bryan know firsthand the impact of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC). In 2016, their daughter, Harper Diem Bryan, was born premature at 32 weeks and spent 60 days in the NICU in Cleveland, Ohio. During that time, RMHC Cleveland became their home-away-from-home, providing comfort and support during an incredibly difficult time.

“It was nice for us to just have a place to go decompress after being in a hospital all day long,” said Nick.

Nick and Sean had heard of the Ronald McDonald House but hadn’t fully understood what it was until they stayed at one. They were amazed at everything it provided, from a comfortable place to sleep to a home cooked meal.

Nick and Sean with daughter Harper

The day before Thanksgiving, Harper was able to come home with Nick and Sean back to Columbus. But, despite her incredible strength, Harper passed away on December 31, 2016, at just three months old. Throughout their grief, Nick and Sean held onto their life motto, “Just Keep Swimming,” a phrase from Dory in Finding Nemo. This resilience carried them forward, leading to the adoption of their beautiful daughter, Piper, almost a year later.

During the pandemic, Nick and Sean were inspired to follow their passion for travel and founded Sandpiper Vacations in August 2020. Their mission is simple: life is too short—just take the trip. Since then, they have helped hundreds of families create magical memories at Disney destinations, on cruises and in dream locations worldwide.

Sean and Nick with daughter Piper

To honor Harper’s memory, the Bryan family continues to give back to RMHC Central Ohio by cooking meals on her birthday and making numerous donations to support families in need. Now, they are taking their commitment even further with the Seas of Support Cruise.

Sail with Purpose – Join the Seas of Support Cruise

Inspired by the unwavering support RMHC provides to families, Sandpiper Vacations is proud to launch the inaugural Seas of Support Cruise, sailing from June 9th – June 13th, 2025, aboard Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas from Port Canaveral, Florida.

Enjoy a brand new ship with luxury amenities as you sail the seas. Explore the Bahamas, and sightsee in Nassau and a private island. The boat includes dining, entertainment shows, rock climbing, water slides, pools and more.

Been wanting to try out a cruise but don’t know where to start? With four nights aboard, this trip serves as the perfect beginner’s cruise. Nick and Sean will make sure your trip goes smoothly from beginning to end. By using Sandpiper Vacations, you can save time, money and stress as they arrange every detail of your trip.

A portion of the proceeds from this special voyage will go directly to RMHC, ensuring that families in crisis continue to receive the care and comfort they need. As part of this meaningful journey, guests will enjoy:

  • hosted cocktail hour
  • A group discount, saving participants up to $2,000 on rates
  • Exclusive Seas of Support goody bags filled with appreciation gifts to commemorate the experience
  • The opportunity to sail with purpose, knowing that their trip helps make a difference in the lives of families in need

Join Us & Make an Impact

We invite RMHC staff, supporters and friends to be part of this incredible journey. Whether you join the Seas of Support Cruise or book any vacation with Sandpiper Vacations, you’ll be helping to support RMHC’s mission of keeping families close when they need it most.

The group rate ends in Mid-March, and there are only 33 rooms left! So, book now to lock in those savings.

For more information or to reserve your spot, visit: www.sandpipervacations.com/rmhc-cruise or contact Nick Bryan at nick@sandpipervacations.com or call/text 614-407-3232.

We can’t wait to sail with you and make a difference—one voyage at a time!