Tyler Needs Your Help
On May 3, 2019 Tyler was snowboarding at Arapahoe Basin with friends when he caught an edge and “scorpioned” over his snowboard, landing directly on his neck. Tyler says he knew instantly that something wasn’t right.
Friends responded quickly, and within minutes Ski Patrol was there to board Tyler onto the Flight for Life, where they airlifted him to St. Anthony’s Hospital. Upon arrival, his ER doctors evaluated him and determined that he broke his C5 vertebrae, damaging his spinal cord in the process. Tyler underwent two surgeries to relieve the pressure on his spinal cord and allow for optimal healing. When he awoke on May 5th, he was completely paralyzed with the exception of some minor movement in his right arm.
He spent 14 days at St. Anthony’s in the Neuro Intensive Care Unit, fighting off recurrent fevers, low blood pressure, tube feeds, and a plethora of other post-operative concerns. When he discharged from the ICU, he was sent to Craig Hospital in Englewood, Colorado for inpatient rehabilitation, where he is currently receiving the best care in the nation.
His days consist of intensive Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Recreational Therapy, and Functional Skills Training. During his short time at Craig, he has regained wrist flexion and extension in his right arm, motor in his left arm, fine motor skills in his right hand, full range of motion in his upper extremities, core strength, and on June 12th, he moved his big toe for the first time.
Tyler’s attitude remains positive and he is incredible motivated to get back on his feet. His doctors, therapists, and friends he has made at Craig are continuously impressed by his progress and spirits, and are confident that he will recover well.
When Tyler arrived at Craig Hospital, his Physicians evaluated his injury and determined that he was a C5 ASIA B incomplete quadriplegic. Since his time at Craig, he has progressed to an ASIA C. This evaluation means that he has all sensation, and that some motor function is preserved below his injury level. 78% of ASIA C’s ambulate within 18-24 months of their injury. However, medical assistance will be needed for the rest of his life. The average cost of medical expenses for the first year of injury is $816,019, and $120,303 for each year thereafter.
We hope to use Help Hope Live to raise funds to offset the cost of Tyler’s past, current, and ongoing medical expenses. We ask that you please consider donating to help his family during this difficult time.
Tyler has chosen to fundraise for Help Hope Live in part because Help Hope Live assures fiscal accountability of funds raised and tax deductibility to the full extent allowed by law for contributors. Contributors can be sure donations will be used to pay or reimburse medical and related expenses. To make a tax-deductible donation to this fundraising campaign, click on the Give button.
For more information, please contact Help Hope Live at 800.642.8399 or contact Sarah, Tyler’s wife, at [email protected]
Thank you so much for all of your support. We truly could not do any of this without your generosity.
Updates (3)
July 30, 2019
Wow!!
We cannot believe it’s already been 12 weeks since Tyler’s injury, and just over 2 weeks since he discharged from Craig Hospital’s inpatient rehabilitation program and came home. In that short amount of time, he has begun an outpatient program at Craig, called the NeuroRecovery Network (NRN) Program, which began as a clinical trial through the Christopher Reeves Foundation. The program consists on repetitive assistive treadmill walking and electrostim on his upper extremities for 15 hours per week, and Tyler will continue the program through the end of October. He has already seen increased mobility in his legs, and is starting to regain more fine motor in his left hand.
Craig Hospital only accepts 4 patients into the NRN Program at a time, and we are feeling so blessed that Tyler was able to get into this groundbreaking and life changing rehabilitation program. We cannot wait to see the additional improvements he will make!
July 3, 2019
From Tyler on June 24th:
Quick Update:
Last Friday marked 7 weeks since my accident, and 5 weeks at Craig Hospital. I have now been cleared to use all of the rehab technology that Craig has available, including the Therapy Pool and FES Elliptical. I'm no Michael Phelps, and far from a track star, but the improvements I've made are monumental. My lower extremities are finally moving!
While the odds are stacked against me, 7 weeks ago my friends and family said that if anyone can beat the odds, it's me. I use that as motivation every single day. Seven weeks ago, I also had a choice to let fear control me, or to control my fear. I said fuck fear. I knew that my attitude was going to be the number one thing to inhibit me from obtaining my goals, and I know today that that's more true than ever. I AM GOING TO WALK AGAIN. #FunkStrong #FuckFear
July 3, 2019
From Tyler on June 13th:
Well... for those of you who may not know, on May 3rd I was snowboarding at A Basin and fell and broke my neck at C5. I was Flight for Lifed to St. Anthony's Hospital where I underwent two surgeries to relieve the pressure that was on my spinal cord. When I woke up from surgery, I was completely paralyzed with the exception of my right arm. Over the next 14 days in ICU, I regained wrist flexion and extension in my right arm, and was barely able to lift my left arm. When I discharged from ICU, they sent me to Craig Hospital for inpatient rehabilitation, where I am currently receiving the best care in the country. As weird as it may sound, I feel so blessed. I have the most incredible support system, family, and one incredible wife. My attitude remains positive and I am extremely motivated to get back on my feet. The goal is, and always has been, to walk again - and I remain focused on that goal each and every day. Since my time at Craig Hospital, I have seen drastic improvements. I have nearly full range of motion in both arms, and have fine motor skills in my right hand. My core strength has improved drastically, and as of yesterday I am able to move my right big toe. I WILL WALK AGAIN. #FunkStrong
Photo Galleries (1)
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Guestbook
December 11, 2019
Slow to walk this one off but sounds like you’re making progress and if anyone deserves a miracle it’s the Funk family. Praying for you Tyler.
Ethan Bates
December 11, 2019
Keep goin Funk!
Anonymous
September 13, 2019
Keep up the great rehab and will keep praying!
Tim & Meg Andersen
September 6, 2019
We are praying for you and your family
Christina Neely
September 6, 2019
Love you guys. So bummed I wasn’t able to make it to The Funkraiser. So inspired by both of you.
Kevin Cooney
September 6, 2019
From the Chicago relatives - we support you all! The Toyama & Takaki families
Nancy Toyama
August 26, 2019
Love and prayers to you cousin! Thank you for showing my kids how to jump off roofs of houses into pools, how to wakeboard and ski like a pro, and how to be the most fun loving guy in the group! Most importantly we all love seeing you beat all the odds
Jen Landini
August 25, 2019
Hi, Tyler,
We met your Mom and Dad through Synergy and BSF. We are in awe of your faith and determination and absolutely believe that you will recover. This is our monthly contribution to enabling you to achieve that success. May God continue to bless you, Laurie and Mike
Laurie Mohrman
August 25, 2019
So sorry we had to miss the Funk Raiser last night. Keep fighting the good fight Tyler. You’re incredible!!
Vicki Dihle
August 24, 2019
Couldn’t make the event yesterday but just want you to know I believe in you.
I feel like it could have been anyone else and it would have been written off and a sad story.
There’s something special about you and your wife and friends that makes this different, like it’s just another chance to show the world how rad you are.
You can and will do this.
Much love.
Mike Helfrich
August 24, 2019
We are praying and rooting for you, Tyler! We have heard nothing but the best about your incredible will to overcome. Your resilient spirit is an inspiration. Praying for continued strength, perseverance, and a never ending source of hope as you wake up each morning ready to battle. Love, The Wirsig Family
Stella Wirsig
August 24, 2019
So bummed to miss the FunkRaiser. Love to all of the Funks.
Darcy Burdick
August 24, 2019
Thank you for including me. Nice to see you recovering and in great spirit
Brandon Lloyd
August 24, 2019
STAY STRONG! You are an incredible man!
Ted Sherry Uhlemann
August 24, 2019
Hoping for a full recovery Tyler!
Ryan Penn
August 24, 2019
“Sir there are little kids around here you need to stop using that language! Nobody cut you off”! -Tyler Funk Vail circa 2014
Blake Dorcey
August 24, 2019
Tyler, our family haven't hang out much. But Nick and Jessica are family, so you are family too.
Keep up the Strength God has given you. He will always be with you through the toughest times. Keep moving! Stay Positive! We will keep you in our prayers. Lalas Family
Adrienne Fang-Lalas
August 23, 2019
Stay positive never give up. We will keep you
in our prayers. We are having to go to bed
earlier to get all the special prayers in
Jean Schlecht
August 23, 2019
All the love and support to friends supporting friends! <3 AK
Andrea Klodetsky
August 23, 2019
I am so sorry to miss tonight! I had every intention of being there, but the baby has stolen all of my powers and won’t allow me to stay up past 7:00 PM. I hope that tonight is everything you deserve for it to be, and know that we are always thinking of you! You are loved by so many, because you have earned it. We are lucky to have you as a friend, and are thinking of you throughout your (already extraordinary!) recovery.
Melanie and Matthew Stewart
August 23, 2019
In honor of Tyler Funk, one of strongest guys I know. Proud of and love ya brother! -DeGryse
Brian DeGryse
August 23, 2019
On behalf of Jecca.
Dan Caster
August 23, 2019
Dear Tyler and Sarah,
I am a friend of your mother’s from Bible Study Fellowship. You and your family remain in my prayers! I pray tonight will be a fabulous event!
With Love In Your Family of Christ,
Paula & Jeremy Conger
Paula Conger
August 23, 2019
Sending healing thoughts and prayers your way!
Robin Fort
August 23, 2019
Sending strength and positive vibes from a friend of a friend.
Becca Lemcke
August 23, 2019
Just a couple in the cloud of witnesses praying to witness your full and complete recovery, and to have peace on the road. Love to you and all the Funks, D'Nelle and Gregg
D'Nelle & Gregg Macaluso
August 23, 2019
Sorry we cannot attend. All the best Tyler!
Matt Trubowicz
Alex Prinster
AP Vintage Motors Matt and Alex
August 23, 2019
You are legendary and I’m so grateful to know you! I’ve been praying for you every day and can’t wait to see you walking again. Cheering for you hard and so proud of you!
Brittany Chessman
August 23, 2019
Sending Love and healing energy to Tyler and Sarah.
Di Oneill
August 22, 2019
Never give up! God bless you two!
Michael Del Riego Del Riego
August 22, 2019
You all will be my prayers. GBY all. Remember GOS its control. Amen
Marlene Almeida
August 22, 2019
You’ve always been someone to watch even when you were little. Continue to inspire!
Sheila Lagasse
August 20, 2019
Best wishes to the Funk Family!
Bobby Baron
August 19, 2019
Prayers for your complete and full recovery!
We pray for God's strength to be at work in you and through you!
Prayer is powerful!
Diane Halkowich
August 19, 2019
Praying for God’s provision and healing. ❤️ Faith , hope, and love, Tom and Lori Wildenberg
Lori Wildenberg
August 13, 2019
Praying for your recovery & inspired by your positivity!!
Laura Riffle
August 12, 2019
I used to babysit for Tyler's sister, Jessica. I adore this family and am praying for a speedy recovery for Tyler! Best of wishes and wish I could be at this fun event! #PrayersFromOC
Jacqueline Merkle
August 12, 2019
Our great friend Angela Cook shared your story. God bless you and your family. We wish you the best!
Ramos Family from Florida
Lennell Ramos
August 12, 2019
Sending prayers and good thoughts to you and your family.
Mary Posz
August 9, 2019
Stay strong and get well, Tyler. Your LA Circlebutt fam is rooting for you! <3
Tom Sirikulbut
August 9, 2019
Get well and stay strong, Tyler. Your Circlebutt LA fam is rooting for you!
Tom Sirikulbut
August 8, 2019
We send our love and support
andrew schwartz
August 7, 2019
Keep it up man, you got this shit.
Dane Wiederspahn
August 7, 2019
Tyler,
We continue to pray daily for you. You are such a strong, motivated young man. You will conquer this challenge God has presented to you.
You have so many people rallying around you and praying for you.
Keep working hard and never give up.
We love you,
Brad and Robin Gutknecht
Brad & Robin Gutknecht
August 4, 2019
Praise be to God for the miracles He has shown you. Praying continually.
Paula Potter
August 2, 2019
Love! ✌️
Rio Chacon
July 31, 2019
Get well!
Soeren Wendland
July 31, 2019
You got this Tyler! you are a true inspiration and I am sure you will come out of this even a better human than you already are.
“Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars.”
– Khalil Gibran
Mariana Cervantes
July 31, 2019
So sorry to hear of what happened, Sarah. Keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers <3
Laura Barrio
July 30, 2019
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Sharon Hernandez
July 25, 2019
Stay strong and funky!
Ivy Shinkle
July 25, 2019
Hey man,
Last night I was sitting there cooking dinner and had the most random thought, "I wonder what Tyler Funk is up to?" I was taken back by that thought as it has been nearly 14 years since we played football at faith. I decided to facebook your name and came upon this. I am sorry what you are going through, but from what I have seen, you are pushing forward! Keep on pushing man! Praying for you
Ryan Caldwell
July 21, 2019
I love you Tyler! ...for who you are, and for all you and your family have meant to my son.
Miles regularly tells me you are the strongest person he knows, and I hope you are aware of the powerful impact you are having on so many people right now as we watch your amazing journey, both close up and from afar. More people are praying for you and sending you positive energy than you may know, and your strength and determination are an inspiration to us all.
I wanted to share a quote I'm working on in my own life:
“You’re not going to master the rest of your life in one day. Just relax. Master the day.
Then just keep doing that every day.”
To be honest, it's hit and miss, but the interesting thing is, that it is only when I can relax an focus on and appreciate the moment I'm actually in that I don't miss out on the real minutes, hours, and days that are my life.
Angelina Cook-Emanuel
July 21, 2019
Sending light & love to you both.
Jessica Luther
July 20, 2019
❤️Funk strong!
Josh McNally
July 20, 2019
Jesus Christ Loves you Tyler.
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
Matthew 11:28-30
Collin Lyons
July 19, 2019
You got this Tyler!!!!!
Johanna Irigoyen
July 18, 2019
Tyler! We haven't seen each other in a minute, but I wanted to send you tons of love and prayers for a speedy and full recovery. You were always one of the most positive, friendly dudes back in our days on Market St. Thank you for the light you bring to this world. Keep on fighting, brother.
Nothing but my best,
Danny McCarthy
Danny McCarthy
July 17, 2019
Crush it my man!
Allen Watkins
July 10, 2019
You got this. No doubt. <3
Brittney Westphal
July 10, 2019
Rylan and I love you Tyler! Thanks to you and your amazing family for all the great times :) More to come!
Taylor Catt
July 9, 2019
Love y’all even tho we haven’t met you! Any brother of Jessica’s is a brother of mine. Go, Tyler Funk!
Holly Seeley
July 8, 2019
Luke Simonich
July 8, 2019
Praying for you and your family Know that God’s got this, He loves you, He is an awesome & powerful God. He will stay with you through out this ordeal. Keep working with Him and never give up.
Susan Penner
July 7, 2019
You will be completely recovered, keep going. God is on your side. Love you. I pray for you.
janet Martens.
July 7, 2019
Keep working and fighting to get better Tyler! You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jeff Kroeker
July 6, 2019
Tyler, I know your parents, and if you are anything like them, God will get you through anything. Praying for you and will get the Rwanda team to also lift you up in prayer. You can do this with His help! Mike and Vicky Koch, Rafiki Rwanda
Vicky Koch
July 6, 2019
Hang in there Tyler, you got this!
Justin Broadbent
July 4, 2019
You are an inspiration!!!
Ross Peterson
July 3, 2019
Stay strong Tyler, we didn’t know each other well but from the little amount of time we spent together, I knew you were an amazing guy. God Bless
Jordan Blott
July 3, 2019
You're a true inspiration. May your incredible drive and positivity continue to bring you miracles in your recovery. ♡
Amber Rizzuto
July 3, 2019
I’m so proud of you Tyler and Sarah for being consistently strong and working hard towards your goals. I love you both immensely. You GOT THIS
Tracy G
June 27, 2019
Tyler you are in our prayers. Through God all things can be done.
Kathy Hayes
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Help Hope Live
Note in memo:
In honor of Tyler Funk
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Help Hope Live
2 Radnor Corporate Center
Suite 100
100 Matsonford Road
Radnor, PA 19087
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