The family of 10-year-old Tyler Brooks received a special gift this week. Tyler, who has been in a coma since being struck by a car on October 25, opened his eyes for the first time on Sunday.
“We’re calling it a Christmas miracle,” says Bethany Wiggins, who has set up a trust fund for the family.
She says Tyler is still sleeping a lot and he cannot talk or walk, but doctors are pleased he is awake.
His mother Connie Brooks was at his bedside when he awoke.
“She was ecstatic to see his eyes open," Wiggins said.
Tyler was riding his bicycle on a sidewalk along Wexford Avenue when he was struck by a vehicle that jumped the curb. The driver didn’t stop.
An Ingersoll man, Toby Van Lieshout, 34, is charged with driving while suspended, drug possession, careless driving, leaving the scene of the collision and use licence plate not authorized for vehicle in connection with the
His wife, Rebecca Van Lieshout, 39, also faces several charges.
Wiggins says Tyler will be moved to Toronto for extensive rehabilitation shortly, but a date has not been set.
While he has a long road ahead of him and doctors are not sure about the outcome, the family is thankful for some progress.
“It’s a baby step in the right direction.”
Wiggins says the family would like to thank people who sent Christmas cards to Tyler, including from as far away as Germany and Belgium.
Wiggins has set up a trust fund for the family, who will incur more costs with the move to Toronto.
It is through TD Canada Trust under Bethany Joyce Mike Wiggins.
