Hello, my name is Tyler Smith. I am from Leduc, Alberta and am a survivor of the April 6th, 2018 Humboldt Broncos bus crash. First, I’m going to tell you a bit about myself. Ever since I was young, sport has been a very dominant aspect of my life and has ultimately shaped me into the person I am today. My usual yearly schedule would involve hockey from August to April, lacrosse from May to July and then golf from May to September, so needless to say I kept myself busy. I also kept my lovely parents busy with the amount of driving and supporting, which they were always happy to do. Whether it be going from a highly intense lacrosse game to a nice relaxing round of golf with friends, I will always appreciate the opportunities I had and the connections I made in sports.
Fast forward to 2018 where I was ready for my second year of Junior A hockey in the town of Drayton Valley, Alberta. I came into training camp looking forward to a new fresh year with the team but little did I know I was on the way out. After getting called into the office and being told I was going to get traded away from the organization to somewhere that was not necessarily on my list of places I would like to go, I was in fight or flight mode. As a junior hockey player in Canada you know that if you are being dealt to another organization, it’s not always the best feeling in the world. I came out of that room in disbelief and in shock. I called my parents and had to quickly regroup to figure out the next step from here. Not having a huge desire to end up in the place they had set out for me left me with the simple, yet difficult, act of calling every coach I could in order to try to find myself a spot to play.
Because I have been playing hockey since I was four years old, I have a certain sense of knowing about the kind of hockey player I am and what kind of hockey person as well. I knew as soon as I stepped foot into junior hockey I wasn’t going to score fifty goals or be on first line powerplay and that was okay with me. I accepted my role as a player who can play both ends of the ice and also be that glue inside the dressing room that helps everyone enjoy the time spent with one another. Now, back to my next step toward my future junior hockey career. After calling numerous coaches around Alberta and parts of Saskatchewan, I was starting to lose faith.
It was starting to get closer to the middle of October which meant many coaches were already set on the roster they had. This left me in a tough spot.
My brother’s best friend spent three years in the town of Humboldt, Saskatchewan playing for the Broncos. After a couple messages between him and I, there I was calling Humboldt’s head coach, Darcy Haugan, and praying for good news on the other end. Coaches of junior hockey know what they want for their team dynamic and ultimately find players to work around that. Darcy was the first coach after many fruitless phone calls to accept my plea and give me one last shot at junior hockey.
Humboldt is six hours away from Leduc and I most definitely did not have a set spot on the roster. After packing my car full of clothes and belongings so I was ready for the possibility of staying, I was on my way. The first practice came and went and let’s just say I was a bit exhausted after not being able to practice with a team for some time. Even with me laying on the bench gasping for air, Coach Darcy saw something in me which lead me to finding my new home. Being a guy who loves the dressing room atmosphere, I like to think I’m pretty good at judging a team’s overall dynamic and character right off the hop and let me tell you, this team was special. It was only a few days in with a whole new team and I was already feeling the sense of pure joy and gratefulness from every player to be there and to put on the Bronco logo. This feeling I got was all thanks to Darcy and his coaching staff; he was a coach who not only brought in good hockey players but also really good people.
Hopefully you’re all still with me. We are a few days after the accident, and I’m waking up in the hospital. I had no idea what was going on. Not having any memory of that day or the few days that followed led me to eventually having some questions for my family, but with a total of eight injuries from the crash I was in no shape to grasp everything that happened because of the pain medication I was on. A couple surgeries and thirteen days in hospital later, I was on my way back to Leduc. Recovery began with many days cooped up in my house taking my medication, going to physiotherapy, heading to doctor’s appointments after doctor’s appointments just wanting to get back to my normal state physically and also mentally which I knew was going to quite possibly never happen after that day.
As a 20-year-old kid you never expect anything in your life like that to take place, let alone be a part of it. There was no way to prepare for something of that magnitude because the bus is your safe haven as a hockey player. The bus is a place for laughs with the team and making many good memories that can now only be cherished from photos and videos. But now being on a bus is forever associated with the day that shook the nation, a day no one saw coming, and a day that I will never forget. Sixteen of the people I spent close to everyday with are now no longer here. Thirteen of my teammates left being survivors of the Humboldt bus crash not knowing what comes next after something that will never make sense to any of us.
The question of ‘why’ will forever linger in all of our minds. Why us? Why would this happen? Why that day? Questions that will never have answers. Many people have asked me, “How do you do it?” and unfortunately I do not have an answer to that simple question. I give many thanks to the support from people across the country but also the world. And I give full credit to the constant support from my family, friends and teammates who are fighting this everyday battle with me. Some days it’s hard to get out of bed or to want to do anything because at the end of the day we lost sixteen amazing people and it’s hard to grasp why they were taken from us.
I find that bouncing back is an everyday process. I can’t jump ahead thinking everything will be healed and normal in a couple weeks because, quite frankly, I think it’s next to impossible to completely heal mentally from something like this. But I believe I do know one thing, those that are no longer here with us would want my teammates and me to get back to as normal as we can. They are watching over us and sometimes it’s hard to know that, so you just have to believe.
As a team we always had each other’s backs no matter who was feeling down or needed a quick lift. I think a big thing we always remembered was to go back to, “It’s a great day to be a Bronco.” We all firmly believed that, so whoever needed to hear it, or be reminded of it, was definitely taken care of by fellow teammates. Unfortunately, there hasn’t been a specific time or place where I can remember it coming into my mind that they were watching over me. I more just believe that every day. It’s important to me to have that belief and feel that connection from up above, so wherever I may be I try to remember what they would want me to do or how they would want me to feel. I find a little look up to the sky or a quick chat with them helps me regroup and start fresh if something isn’t going my way.
With the accident came a lot of physical struggles but also many mental struggles. Since April 6th, I’ve slowly come to learn more and more how important mental health is. I was always somebody who hashtagged Bell Let’s Talk on that day, but didn’t understand the full meaning of mental health and how much it can affect you. If you’re that person who struggles to put yourself first and talk about what needs to be talked about, then trust me when I say this, I’ve been in your shoes. I was always the one welcoming other people’s problems into my life to try and help the best I could to make sure that individual was doing okay and felt cared for. But after hiding from my mental health problems and pushing them to the back burner, I realized how important it is to open up and put myself first or else a rapid downhill spiral could occur. Talking to somebody and realizing that people are here to help allowed me start getting back to my normal personality without having to hide things.
One of the toughest lessons I learned is that it’s okay to not be okay. Moving forward will consist of good days but also bad. My perspective on life has altered and so has my view on mental health.
If I can give one piece of advice to anyone from all of this, it’s that you have to be willing to open up when you aren’t doing so hot. Life is very short and I know that that’s a cliché, but it really is, so take advantage of the time you have and be grateful for the people around you. The people you surround yourself with is who you will create those memories with. I took the memories for granted before, but now I realize that memories may all you have left to hold onto.
I will never be able to tell you how to grieve or how to heal or how to recover because another major lesson I have also learned is that everybody heals differently. The way you heal is a different journey and also shows you that there truly is no right or wrong way to heal from tragedy. One step at a time, one day at a time, one lesson at a time. Everything I experienced was pretty much brand new to me. I found out the hard way that being a part of a tragedy of this extent can take a very big toll on you and taking care of yourself is something you must realize and do before it’s too late.
From my story you got to know a little bit about me, and, like most people you may be curious to know about how am I doing. To answer that question all I can say is: I’m doing okay. I truly miss every person I lost more than anyone will ever know and I would do anything to change that day or be able to say goodbye to each one of them, because not being able to say goodbye is one of the hardest things of it all to grasp. I want to personally thank all the people who left a stick outside their door or supported in any possible way. You all have filled my family’s heart with love when we didn’t have much left. The way events in our world transpire will sometimes never make sense, but it’s important to take the time you need for yourself, take care of yourself, and to find those people who make you feel okay when you are not okay. Life is short, be grateful for what you have and who you have. Thank you for reading.
#HumboldtStrong
Tyler
Comments
That fateful day will be forever etched in my mind and heart. Happened 2 days before my birthday. As a hockey mom, I now dread every time my son gets on the bus. Tyler, you boys that survived are true inspirations!! Thank you for sharing! I would love for you to meet and talk with my son. He just finished his last year of Bantam AA in Grande Prairie. I think if he could talk to you, he may realize how important his health is to his love of hockey. Keep strong bud! Wishing you happiness and health!!!
My heart still hurts for you all. Thanks for sharing your story Tyler. Just reading your story brought tears to my eyes thinking of all the young men and staff taken that dreadful day. My son played for The Hawks the previous year and new a couple players from The Broncos. We were at hockey game in Edmonton when we heard the news. My son was on the ice at the time and all I wanted or needed to do was hug and hold him tight. Thinking of you all. Take care.
I’m always happy to hear stories about how you are all doing. I’m so impressed that you can manage to push through tough days.
I remember that day very well, as many do. I was in a conference in Banff. This particular conference was held for trauma response professionals, rcmp and VSU volunteers and staff members. We were at our morning speaker in the auditorium with hundreds of ppl. Many of those ppl were directors and rcmp that would have possibly been called to respond to the accident. We had a professional come out and speak to what was happening with the scene and offer counselling to some ppl. I’ve never seen so many ppl hold their breath. We were all thinking of all of you and your families.
Again it’s always nice to see you are trying your best to carry on.
My son died just over a year ago, playing the game he loved. Thank you for sharing your insight and journey. I believe the same as you that it is one day at a time. Some days are much harder than others, and on those days it is the mental part that is so difficult. I hope you still get to play the game you love, in honor of all your teammates.
I have been inspired by your story and you have an awesome spirit. Just wanted to say to you that I have been praying for all of the survivors but especially you nearly every day since it happened. There is a reason for everything but we don’t know why at the time. Thank you for your story.
Thank you for sharing your story. You are an incredible young man . I couldn’t imagine going through the tragedy you went through. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family . They are all watching over you in heaven .
<3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3
<3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3 <3
my stick still sits on my porch,
take care Tyler, <3 great writeup
awe the hearts didn’t show up well you know what they are,, love your birds
As it was my 60th birthday that fatefulday…I remember celebrating with my partner ,enjoying every moment of my evening, when we both heard the news… devasting and heartbreaking. Your courage in telling your story is immense. I cannot fathom the loss parents and families have felt…having 2 sons myself, I feel incredibly blessed to still be able to see them and hear their voices,laughter, and am reminded each day that one never knows what our futures hold. Thankyou for sharing and I wish you nothing but the best as you move forward. Humboldt strong!
I think of you and the other survivors all the time, you are a strong young man and I wish you a life filled with love❤️
i remember this horrific day so clearly. For I knew what the families would now have to deal with. The path of shock, grieving and making plans for there boys memorials. I grieved so hard for all of you.
For I had lost my 33 year old daughter from an amniotic embolism giving birth to there second child. The shuck that we are forever changed and this path or journey we are now on is a hard hard one.
I pray for and all the parents that lost there boys there precious boys so young and full of life and so much mire to live.
And for you young man, live every day with no regrets. We all know life is way to short.
God will give you strength for the good days and the hard ones. Thank you for sharing
Forever and always 💝💝💝🙏🙏🙏
Thank you for sharing your story with us. I lost my 32 year old daughter to cancer on Nov 21 and every day I struggle. The pain is like nothing I’ve ever felt. When people ask how I’m doing I say “I’m working on being ok”. It’s the best I can give them because for the most part I’m not. Reading ” It’s ok not to be ok” really hits home. All the best to you and your family.
Thank you for sharing, I am from carrot river sask. I have to pass through that intersection allot, Glen the bus driver was from here, I knew Glen as I worked with him. That day was so.. tragic.. and so many lives changed that day. Im very proud that you have carried on and are an inspiration to so many people. Keep up the good your doing for others this article will help others thank you❤💚💛
Tyler,
That day will ever be on my mind as we all felt such sorrow for all the families involved. This affected us all in so many ways. An unimaginable tragedy. This article is a true inspiration to so many. You truly have a gift and should continue to help others, we all need it from time to time. Thank you for sharing, the very best to you as you continue to heal. “It’s OK to not be OK” 💕🙏🤞🌹
Richmond, B.C.
thank you for sharing your heart Tyler. I can’t imagine the shock and emotional lingering trauma that must be a daily sort of your existence.
This may sound weird and I wish I could email you personally – but homeopathy can be profoundly helpful for grief and shock – as we each respond differently like you said. If you are finding you get ‘stuck’ at any point among your healing journey, from personal experience, I just want to plant the seed for you to reach out to a homeopath 💛
Good luck and may you continue to heal. Thank you for sharing.
That day really struck a nerve. My son was a hockey player. He put his best hockey stick outside the front door to Honour those who have gone. Was hard not knowing of the survivors🙏🏽♥️🙏🏽 Thank you for sharing your story and very happy that you are ok and stil helping others with your story. Prayers sent to you and the others. 🌹
My mom was in bad car accident with my dad and lost my aunty❤️🙏🏽❤️ Everyday she strives for the Best. ♥️🙏🏽♥️ Take care and God Bless you
You and your team mates will always live in our Hearts forever 💞🌹💕
Tyler thanks so much for sharing your story, its important to talk about these issues for sure and it is nothing but brave. I am a disabled person since 16 and my mental health has always been hidden or covered up. I am inspired by your strength. Also, I believe that everything, no matter how devastating happens for a reason and we as humans have no control over it. Yes, we try to be good people but as we have free will and are human, mistakes no matter how huge will happen. I know this story has reached people around the world and people will learn to drive more safely. Communities and groups have come together. Keep the faith.
Tyler, after an unimaginable event, the fact that you have this insight, and can move forward, and share this with all of us, speaks volumes to the incredibly resilient young man that you are. I hope you know that there are millions of us whose hearts often think of your broken heart. I hope you are forever aware of the angels by your side who are watching out for you. #humboldtstrong
Thank you Tyler for your courage in sharing your terrible loss. Sending love and as many hugs as you need. God Bless you and your team, in heaven and on earth.
Thank you for you for sharing your incredible inspiring story and it will definitely help you and many with everything in all aspects of your life moving forward .
Very touching and inspirational; a feeling young man who had to grow up so suddenly. As a Mother of 2 sons who also played hockey I feel for Tyler and his parents to this day. Good luck Tyler and the rest of the surviving players.
One thing I can say at 20 years old I was not even half the man that Tyler is I thought I was but looking back I see that being a young man is more than many think watch this young man read his letter and use him a template to be mature and humble and real God bless you young man.
Tyler your loss is so big. Your story will inspire many. I pray you will have more ok days and more days filled with pure joy.
Thank you and bless you! 💛💚
Hi Tyler.
Thank you for sharing your personal journey.. I can not imagine your pain. You are a wonderful young man. All the best.
Thank you for sharing your story with all of us. You are an incredible inspiration to others who experience loss and are struggling. It IS ok to not be ok!!!
My son is now playing the college circuit at Sait in Alberta. As a parent I worry every time there is a road trip. He put a stick out after the accident and it still remains at my front door. I was touched by your story. And wish you nothing but wellness and happiness. Be true to yourself and everything else will fall into place.
Tyler you are an exceptional young man. This was so well written. My heart goes out to you and all the surviving players and all the families of this tragedy. I too have had great sadness in my life, losing a lot of members of my people in a short period of time. One of them being my 19 year old son. It took me a long time to understand that it’s ok to be not ok. You will have ok days. I have also learned that your ok days start to string together to become ok weeks. They are with and always will be.
When you love someone dear
a piece of their heart they leave right here
a piece of your heart they take as well
amid heaven’s glorious swell
now on earth our heart has lost a space
so a piece of heaven takes it’s place
now our hearts become so much larger
and we become much wiser
so I believe in God’s great plan
the gifts of love courage He gives to man
the spirit of hope
and the ability to cope.
Tyler,
Thank you for sharing your story, your words, your struggles and your triumphs. You may not feel triumphant, but please know that every day you get up, move and get through your day, well…a lot of us in the mental health arena feel like that is a triumph. Thank you for speaking to the importance of reaching out and for highlighting the healing that needs to happen…which is not only physical but mental, as well.
We have a green tape initiative called #BuddyCheckforJesse and while this is in no way a plug for what we are doing, we wanted to reach out to thank you for speaking your truth and being an advocate for supporting mental health.
We wish you all the best. Thank you for your strength, your resilience and your openness to share.
Thank you for your inspirational words Tyler.
I didn’t realize how much I would connect to the words you wrote. I lost someone I love unexpectedly when I was 18. All I wish is that I could have just said good bye.
I think about your team a lot. As a former uni hockey player, I could not imagine the grief you are going through.
I wish you all the best and pray for your continued healing.
Tyler,
This article is very well written, you have given great insight to mental health and healing post trauma.
I was one of the Operating Room Nurses working that weekend and think about that weekend, and all of those involved, often. It was, and will continue to be, one of the most memorable marks of my nursing career.
As a nurse we often do not find out what happens to our patients or how they are doing once they leave us. Reading stories and articles from the survivors like yourself is very helpful in my own healing process and I appreciate it greatly.
It’s okay not to be okay. 💚💛
Wishing you all of the best, and I know you will continue to do great things.
Tyler,
I never met you or anyone from the Broncos but I do know the pain of losing someone as I also lost someone but I have to say reading what you wrote makes me heart skip a beat I can’t begin to imagine what any of you went through that day and I’m soo sorry you and your brothers from the team had the experience something like that but I just wanted to say that no matter what the boys would be proud of you and they are watching over all of you with love and it may not seem like much and I know I can’t possibly know how you guys feel but let me tell you this you are all brave strong and fierce you can’t give up you fight and you survive with no fear you guys can teach so many some things that they won’t even know they need to learn so you guys keep your heads up and stand proud but also keep this in mind the boys who are no longer here, it’s not goodbye and I have faith you will see them again so don’t stress too much about saying goodbye instead say see you again brothers and as long as you guys carry a part of them in your hearts with you then they are never to far away I wish you and the others nothing but success and happiness Take care and watch out for each other #humboltstrong 💚💛
Thank you for sharing Tyler! I am a hockey mom and have actually ridden the bus a couple of times. So it hit me eerily. I believe you were supposed to share for both
your healing and to help others hear you share your mental health story. It is hard to realize for yourself that it is a Real thing and it is harder to get others to understand. Even though they cant understand much because they didn’t live it AND thank God they haven’t had to. But keep sharing because some time in their lives it might be something that they will remember and can hold on to in their own challenge. So glad you have people around you that are more than happy to support you. I
Hi Ty
You obviously won’t remember me but I will always remember you. I was part of the medical team that cared for you when you first came to hospital by ambulance. I was there through your surgery and all the while my heart was breaking as I also have a son your age. I’m so glad that you have done so well and that you can share your story. I wish you joy and happiness and a life full of love.
Brenda, thank you so much for everything you did for our Tyler, it means the world to us. I am so glad to have read this and that I am able to thank you. 💚❤️💛 lots of love and hugs from Tyler’s mom, Melanie
Tyler, I am guessing that you have only met or know a small fraction of the millions of us around the world who truly and genuinely care about you and your team mates and that horrible day. Please know that not only do we care, but we wish we could absorb some of your pain. Thank you so much for connecting with us. You have a whole world of people who are here for you.
What an incredible article. Thank you so much for sharing it with the world. As a hockey mom of an MJHL player the same age, I was shaken to the core that day. It was a tragedy beyond words. Just know that we think of you boys always and prayer for healing. 💚💛
Tyler, I think of you guys all the time. Speaking and writing honestly about the good and bad days is critical and I really appreciate learning more about you. There are many of us with ties to the Broncos and Humboldt that have you and your teammates in our thoughts and prayers.
Thank you for sharing Tyler. Stay strong. 😭
Thank you for what you are doing for others. I appreciate the time you always take with Hayden. May every day get easier and you are blessed with each day!
Thank you, Tyler for sharing your story with us. We as Canadians will never forget you and all of your teammates and the tragedy that unfolded that day.
Your message is a very important one for people to hear. We do have to take care of ourselves, too and it’s ok to reach out when we aren’t doing well .
We can never be reminded of this too much.
It’s also important for us to try to appreciate every day in some way and the people around us who love us.
I believe it was Winston Churchill who said “ if you are going through hell… keep going” You have been through hell but you have come out a very strong man with invaluable lessons you have shared with the rest of us. Your teammates I know are with you in spirit !
💛Michelle Stacey
Toronto, Canada
Thank you Tyler for being honest and open. Your words moved me deeply. #Humblestrong 👍🙌
Thank you for sharing your story Tyler. You have impacted all of our lives. God bless you!
Opening up about your journey through this horrific tragedy shows the strength and courage you have. We can’t begin to know the pain of that day for all involved but please know we grieved with you. Ive followed every story, watched every memorial, watched that first game and the tribute that followed. I looked at all of you and could see the pain and sadness but also the resilience. You can see what a special group you all are. Keep fighting through, keep talking. I have no doubt you will do wonderful things in this world!
Thank you for your time in sharing your experience. As a mom of a jr hockey player for many years, the Humboldt event was horrifying, even from afar. I was away for work in rural Nova Scotia a few weeks after the crash and every doorway had a hockey stick outside. The entire country was in mourning and sending love to everyone affected. Yes, life is short, but the people we encounter and do life with make it so worthwhile. Best wishes to you always. Love big, travel light!
Tyler,
Thank you for sharing your story. Thank you for being able to share about your mental health and physical health as they are equally as important. Praying that you have all your new dreams come true.
Thanks for your words Tyler, it’s good that your sharing your story, not only for your own recovery – but for everyone else to see the importance of healing. Many were affected by this tragedy, all though not actually involved in the impact of the accident itself. A whole world came together. The impact of this really affected many hockey communities in ways they to will understand. We all struggle and continue to struggle with the mental health of so many things, but people like you help them start to see the importance of opening up and sharing. I’m very involved in our Jr. B hockey organization and because of people like you we can learn to understand and help support individuals struggling with so much more then just the ice time & team stuff! Your truly an inspiration to everyone – and trust me, all 16 individuals lost are looking down on you daily to support you and are proud of you! Forever you’ll be connected in ways know one will understand, as you were daily “it’s a great day to be a Bronco” cherish that for your eternal life.
You are one strong young man and may your healing continue as time goes on. Our grandson played in the WHL and there wasn’t a trip they made that I never quit worrying when they had to travel out of town to play . When they got there , I would give a sigh of relief and when they would get home I could breath again. I could only imagine the pain that all of the families that have gone through this terrible accident and hopefully the bad memories will fade and the great ones will replace them. Hugs to all and thanks for the share
Thank you, coming from a hockey family, I know what the bus meant, I understand what the bond is. My husband coached, Leduc included, for over 21 years, my son also a junior player. I know what good comes from this. I also know the grief. I also am understanding that losing someone makes you enter a different world. One you must learn how to navigate so differently. I am grateful as well for memories, and I use them to move forward. I hope you do to, your life is open to whatever you make of it. Take Good Care, Lynn
It took courage to write that. I also grew up in Leduc, and have survived the deaths of both of my daughters and husband, serious ongoing injuries after a highway collision, and a son who still deals with PTSD. It is through amazing support and a will to go on that I have made it, and I am glad that you are too. I have prayed for you all. ❤️
Thank you for sharing your story. My brother played for the Melville Millionaires a few years ago and when I heard about this accident, I was so completely devastated. We know first hand that a lot of these young men struggle with mental health issues to begin with, and to have this extreme loss happen on such a national scale on top of that must be a very difficult thing to handle. I hope you all continue to heal at your own paces and continue to find happiness and peace in your everyday lives. 💚💛
I hope that our abundance of sadness upon hearing of this tragic accident will take some of the peaks of pain to a lesser point because we all feel it and share it.Prayer is powerful.Offer it all to Him.
Thanks for sharing Tyler! An amazing journey for a young man. Know that you have great purpose as you persevere forward in life!
May God give you strength and peace for each new day!
Beautiful. As with anything in life we make a choice to move on or stay stuck in any tragedy. As with anything tragic in our lives, we can chose to dwell on it and let it control us – or we chose to move onwards and upwards and appreciate every moment we have to extend our journey down here.
There is a song I often listen to when things aren’t “okay”. If you have not heard it before, let me be the one to introduce it to you. Faith is all that is left after tragedies such as yours. Maybe it IS okay?
https://youtu.be/hl5GcRrJLyw
The Bronco’s were a strong group of young men that year. Reading your story gives me comfort that our friend Jacob knew such a well spoken, well written young man. He would have laughed with you in the dressing room, and now he is praying for you to heal. Thanks for sharing your struggles.
Thank you for sharing your story. The world took a big hit that night. 16 beautiful and inspirational souls were lost forever. The 13 Strong and courageous survivors have been nothing short of miracles. Each one with special talents and strengths. It’s been an honour to read about and share their journeys. Darcy’s Core Covenant hangs in my office to inspire me to be a better person. This tragedy taught me a lot and has humbled me. Always Stay Strong and Believe. 💚💛
Me too. I think about that team and their families just about every day. It brings me to tears most days. I have a son who plays Junior A and so it really hit home. I will day how proud I am of these young men and everyone who helped and donated and put their sticks out. I will also say that these guys are changing lives with their honest stories, and journeys and strength and determination. I know I look at my loved ones differently now and don’t sweat the small stuff as much as I did. Thank you for teaching us that. 💚💛
Thank you for sharing your difficult journey. we have prayed for you and all the families effected by this terrible tragedy. You definitely have a voice to bring about healing for many. Blessings.
I don’t know where you are on your “faith journey” Tyler, but God WILL take this tragedy (a man’s choice that had horrendous consequences) and turn evil into good. Joshua 1:9 always strengthens me. You, young man, are courageous for writing this and God will use you and everything you are going through to help others. Listen to the words in the songs “You Say” and “Rescue You” by Lauren Daigle. God bless you Tyler.
Thank you Tyler for sharing. Those are very powerful words to come from a 20 year old man. Much love to you 💕 🙏🏼#humboldtstrong
Tyler, you are a inspiration. You are an incredibly strong young man, who has been forced to deal with more than you should have to.. more than anyone should have to. You are courageous, brave and Humboldt Strong, and you should be very proud of yourself. Much love to you and your family. ~Jaceys Mom ❤️
Thank you Tyler, Stay strong, keep talking, well listen x
Thank you for sharing a Tyler! Thank you ☺️
#humboltstrong 💚
From a fort McMurray, Alberta
Thank you for sharing your story, and giving me some insight! Your strength & perseverance are admirable, as well as your willingness to ask for help when needed.
Thank you so much for sharing your story. Just stay strong and take one day at a time.
What a strong young man you are, you are an inspiration. Thank you for sharing. God bless you, on your healing journey! 🙏
Thank you Tyler
I remember Darcy & Mark ,who are wonderful coaches for Humboldt.Were friends of mine.Thank you for the story ,it made me think about all of your teammates who came back to play with Humboldt and how hard it was.
I wish all the best for all of you.
Leanne
It was inspiring to meet you this summer in California. We prayed for you outside the rink, we hope your arm and wrist are better. Thank you for writing this article, you articulate your struggles very well which helps others understand. The day the bus crashed has become one of those tragic memorable times. Where were you when you heard about it? I remember the shock and horror of it, having 3 sons who play hockey 2 in juniors, the bus is such an intricate part of the experience. We immediately started praying and watched for updates. We still have a stick outside our front door. So know the hockey community still grieves with you and that you are not alone or forgotten. We pray that God will continue to heal you and some how bring good out of this accident. God bless.
Tyler, theres so much respect for you, I know what you’ve gone through, and what is still happening. I was one of the first 12 Fire Fighters from Tisdale on scene. I’ve thought of everyone of you boys everyday since that cold night. If you ever need anything, or if you’d like to talk to me. I’m always hanging around.
Matt, this is Tyler’s mom, I just wanted to say thank you for being there. I am sure that day does not leave your mind as it doesn’t leave ours. You are a wonderful person. 💛💚
Matt, this is Scott Thomas. Evan Thomas’ Dad. Thank you so much for your courage to go towards the scene of the accident. Thanks also to your 11 team mates. Team is important as Tyler tells in his story. Evan loved Tyler and the boys ( and Dayna) May you find peace in your heart.
Matt….I just wanted to thank you for what you do. You are proof positive that there are angels on earth.
When we remember ‘that’ day, we also remember the first responders and hope that you too are taking care of yourselves. Bless you for what you do.
Thank you for sharing. You are an amazing young man. My heart goes out to you and I wish you all the best
Tyler, first of all thank you for sharing your story reading it I had tears running down my cheek. That awful day that accident happened I think the world came to a stop, even though most of us didn’t know you or your team the love and compassion that came out of everybody was unbelievable. One thing is for sure there’s not one person that I’ll never forget that day. I wish you and your fellow teammates all the best and please continue your dream. Again thank you for sharing your story it means a lot to all of us even though we weren’t there at that time or place we all felt your pain all the best in the future and please once in awhile keep us updated on your progress
Thank you for sharing your story.You have my utmost admiration.Take care.My sik ISIL on m doorstep
HUMBOLDT STRONG.
Thank you Tyler – stay OK even when you are not OK. You and the Broncos are forever in my thoughts.
Young man stay strong and yes it is tuff I have been through a death of my son from an accident and yes we have good and bad day but remember the memories they will truly help. 😘💕
Tyler, theres so much respect for you, I know what you’ve gone through, and what is still happening. I was one of the first 12 Fire Fighters from Tisdale on scene. I’ve thought of everyone of you boys everyday since that cold night. If you ever need anything, or if you’d like to talk to me. I’m always hanging around.
God bless you and all the First Responders that were there that HORRIFIC day and what you continue to do each and every day…
Thank you Tyler for sharing your story about the unimaginable tragedy that you survived when many of your close teammates did not. Your love and vulnerability will surely help others and I hope you find the kind of community you were blessed to find with the Broncos. I can’t imagine how a team rebuilds after such a loss but I love how it forever made an impression on you and how your teammates guide you even today. All the best in your healing journey and finding a way to find meaning each day, even when life does not always make sense. Thanks for sharing your story.
Thank you for sharing Tyler 😀 #humboldtstrong
Very well written, Tyler! Love the back story of your junior hockey career. It’s amazing how people, especially great teams can be the best support groups.
I truly hope you can play again, whether that’s hockey, lacrosse and/or golf.
Appreciate you sharing your story. Wise words for a young man.
He is such an amazing Young man. My Heart ist ALWAYS with you and your Teammates
Thank you for sharing Tyler. Stay strong. My heart goes out to you.
#Humboldtstrong
I think about how symbolic numbers can be. 2008, there was a limo crash, that paralyzed #16 of the Detroit Redwings. In 2018, a bus runs a stop sign and kills 16 people. I know it’s different, but yet a nation was United in tragedy. And all because of hockey!!! I am a hockey fan, a Redwings fan from Edmonton Alberta. A mom, a daughter, a wife…and someone who suffers from mental health!! It takes a lot to step out and talk!!! So proud of all you boys and the families of those who didn’t make it. You all keep going and keep looking for the rainbow at the end of the storm. You give hope to the rest of us, that no matter the tragedy, you can find the strength to keep going!!! Thank you for sharing your story!!!
Thank You for sharing Tyler, you are one inspirational young man…
I am an Off-Ice Official for the Seattle Thunderbirds and the WHL and have been for 26 years. The tragic accident affected so many, but also brought to light of what the true meaning of team and family really means… As a parent of 2 athletes and have traveled many miles with them and have worried every second when I wasn’t traveling with them, i still can’t imagine the hurt and pain those parents felt that terrible day.
Don’t you ever feel alone, the hockey family is endless and you probably found that out when you were able to comprehend of what happened and the support that came from all over the World because of it. The lifelong brotherhood of being a teammate is unmatched, even after a change in teams along the way, its what’s great about sports! I have teammates and guys that I’ve competed against that I talk to every day and I’m 55 years old, so those bonds will always exist for you and all others.
Take Care and stay #Humboldtstrong