Tyler Priest returns home, attends football game

VAN WERT - Van Wert Football Coach Bob Priest had a victory before his team ever took the field Friday night.

His son Tyler, who was critically injured in a farming accident July 6 when he was run over by a tractor, attended the game at Eggeress Stadium.

Tyler Priest received a standing ovation from both sides of the stadium when he was brought out in a wheelchair for a pregame ceremony.

The crowd was dotted with adults and kids wearing shirts with the name "Ty" on them.

The stadium announcer got choked up as he recounted the story of how Tyler was injured and given last rites by his parish priest.
Nearly three months of commuting to Tyler's bedside after football practice followed for Bob Priest. The entire Priest family faced a difficult period of prayer and modest hope. The community rallied around the family with many fundraisers and benefit activities.

For several days after the accident, it wasn't clear whether Tyler would survive. But, with the help of a walker, he walked out of the hospital Thursday, 87 days after being injured.

"He's home right now and he's doing well, Bob Priest said Thursday evening.

Tyler still has a lot of work ahead. He cannot speak yet, though he does have a good laugh, Bob Priest said.

"He is pretty effectively communicating through sign language," his dad said. Tyler learned to sign in preschool because there were deaf students in his class. Bob Priest was amazed that, seven years later, he is using that skill. "He only knows a few words, but he knows the whole alphabet. He's spelling everything out."

"He just signed 'I love you,' to me," Bob Priest said while talking about his son over the phone on Thursday.

Since Tyler is know walking, he will move to outpatient therapy instead of home therapy has originally planned.

Tyler's spirit remains strong, according to family. Coach Priest said Thursday that Tyler was eager to get out and go to Friday's game.

Coach Priest said he has been amazed by the support from the community since the accident occurred. From helping with the commuting to the Toledo hospital to preparing the house for Tyler's return, the support has been phenomenal, he said.

"Thank you just doesn't cut it," he said. "For people to take that on themselves is amazing."

"Our entire family would like people to know how much we appreciate it."