Tyler Theroux was born with a brachial plexus birth injury, resulting in a dysfunctional and painful left arm. This condition hindered his ability to participate in activities like playing on the monkey bars and made him a target for bullying during his early years. Eventually, he and his family decided to homeschool him, which lessened the teasing but did not alleviate his persistent pain that worsened with each growth spurt. With his left arm heavily affected, Theroux struggled with nerve pain from the brachial plexus, which kept him awake at night despite multiple surgical and therapeutic interventions.

As Tyler grew older, he endeavored to lead a normal life supported by his parents and siblings. He pursued a college education in recreational therapy, aiming to assist others facing similar challenges. However, a serious fall on ice compounded his issues, rendering him nearly bedbound from pain for two years. The condition intensified his left arm’s dysfunction due to a complication called radiculopathy, leading to depression and frequent exhaustion, making daily tasks like dressing himself nearly impossible.

Driven by their son's suffering, Ken and Michelle Theroux researched extensively, trying to find effective solutions that eluded them locally. They discovered that brachial plexus injuries are rare and can be caused by various factors, with a noted increase in cases annually. While mild forms may resolve independently, severe injuries often require complex surgical interventions that are not guaranteed to restore full function.

After exhausting local options and advice from various specialists, the family expanded their search outside of Canada and found two surgeons at NYU Langone who could offer hope. Together, these experts devised a surgical plan that included a neurolysis to address the damaged nerves and a humeral osteotomy to restore shoulder movement. Despite numerous delays concerning insurance coverage, the surgery took place on December 5, 2023.

Post-surgery, Tyler experienced immediate relief from his pain, reducing from an intense nine out of ten to a manageable two. Months later, his recovery continues positively, allowing him to engage more fully in life, including sports and upcoming college plans. The surgery has transformed not only his physical abilities but also his outlook on life, bringing newfound hope and a sense of community from connecting with others facing similar struggles.