Tyler Murphy, a 2013 graduate of Turlock High School and a stand-out pitcher in his senior season for the Bulldogs, returned home to a hero's welcome Monday evening after 26 days spent in the hospital. On Aug. 8, Tyler was airlifted to Memorial Hospital following a horrific accident at Lake Tulloch in which the young man was run over by a boat and suffered severe injuries to his right leg and hand.
Prior to the accident Murphy had accepted a scholarship to play baseball at St. Mary’s College. Contrary to previous media reports, Murphy’s family says that St. Mary’s College is holding Tyler's scholarship for him and that his future in baseball is far from over. He will redshirt this year and is determined to come back strong for the 2014 season.
“The doctors are very optimistic. He will go through extensive rehabilitation and it won’t be easy. The doctors say he can recover – he is young, healthy and he has a great attitude,” said Tyler’s mother, Lori Murphy.
Still in his wheelchair and unable to put pressure on his hands, Tyler went to his friends volleyball game this week – his first venture in public since the accident.
“He did very well and he is well on his way to recovery,” said Lori Murphy.
Murphy’s recovery took a turn for the better in recent days after enduring numerous surgeries including a skin graph to his right leg, which suffered a laceration from the upper hamstring to his ankle. Since his accident the Turlock community has come to the Murphy family’s aid with support and encouragement. Teammates, friends and family of Murphy, dubbed “Team Murphy” have held fundraisers ranging from car washes to raffles and pizza sales to support Murphy.
Murphy’s mother and father posted a heart-felt message to the community to thank them for their support.
“Tyler has endured a long three weeks in the hospital with many surgeries and more pain than you could ever imagine! As his mother, this has been the hardest thing I have ever had to endure and I cannot believe the amount of courage and strength he has shown. Tony and I want to say thank you from the bottom of our hearts for everything that our family, friends and the community has done to support Tyler through this tragic accident! We consider all of you as part of our extended family and love you very much!”
On Sept. 20 Team Murphy will hold a Dinner, Drinks and Dancing fundraiser to benefit Tyler. The event will include a silent auction, and will run from 6 to 11 p.m. at 3540 Amethyst Way in Turlock. Tickets are $50. For more information visit www.facebook.com/pages/Team-Murphy/349231991875310 or call (209) 678-0290 or (209) 404-5638.
