Tyler’s Story

The Trego family, like most families of those with a traumatic brain injury, had their entire world turned upside down after their 17-year-old son was in a car accident. As Tyler's parents were preparing to launch him into adulthood, the family faced rising medical expenses, travel costs, time off work, and other needs.

Quickly the Trego family was faced with rising medical expenses, travel costs, time off work, and other needs. In order for Tyler to return home, the family had to move into a new home and make sure Tyler could properly function in his new “normal” throughout the house. Not to mention, Tyler’s parents had to start to learn all the support resources in the State of Delaware.  This family’s life changed in the blink of an eye and they were left looking for answers and solutions on how to help their son. His parents were willing to do whatever it took to get Tyler what he needed; however, maneuvering the system still continues to be a challenge and they learn more and more each day.

Tyler continues to have a great outlook. He stated that “I initially focused on everything I couldn’t do. After working with PT, OT, and speech therapy, I was able to see how much I actually could do, just in a different way than I was used to. I tried to stay positive throughout my recovery and remind myself to focus on what I could do versus what I couldn’t.” The support and love he felt from family, friends, and the community were instrumental in recovery as well.

Tyler and his family continued to have struggles finding support services for young adults. Tyler truly has been a light in this world. Sadly, Tyler passed away on June 8, 2020.  We will miss Tyler's smile and positivity but know that he wants us to press forward with increased resources for our brain injury community.