Tyler Rutka-Hudson

After experiencing a traumatic brain injury at just 12 years old, Tyler Rutka-Hudson is using his voice to share a story of determination, recovery, and the importance of brain injury awareness and research.

Life After TBI: Tyler’s Story

Tyler Rutka-Hudson was only 12 when his life took an unexpected turn following a serious cycling incident in Whyalla. He sustained multiple critical injuries, including a traumatic brain injury that resulted in a stroke. Tyler required emergency neurosurgery and spent an extended period in hospital receiving specialist care.

Emerging from a coma, Tyler faced a long and challenging road ahead. He had lost the ability to walk and speak and needed to relearn many everyday skills. With months of rehabilitation, persistence, and remarkable strength, Tyler slowly regained his independence and confidence.

Today, Tyler is bravely sharing his experience to help raise awareness about traumatic brain injury, recovery, and the importance of helmet safety for young people. By speaking openly, he hopes to educate others and support those on similar journeys. We are incredibly grateful to Tyler for sharing his story with the NRF community.

Tyler’s journey highlights the resilience of the human spirit and reinforces why ongoing investment in neurosurgical research and care is so essential.

You can support traumatic brain injury research by:

• Making a donation to support vital TBI research

• Purchasing a Green Awareness Ribbon to wear proudly during March for Traumatic Brain Injury Awareness Month

Watch Tyler’s video interview to hear his story in his own words.