After trying to get out of bed and falling down after the 2007 football season NFL prospect Tyler Campbell, youngest son of Earl and Reuna Campbell, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. The team doctor at San Diego State University had suspicions that this situation stemmed from a football injury obtained during practice or a game. After an MRI, the results pointed to MS. Keeping the diagnosis a secret from his teammates, Tyler continued to play football during the 2008 season and went on to graduate from San Diego State University with a degree in Business Administration.

Following his Pro Day at San Diego State in 2009, Tyler had a relapse and his neurologist permanently sidelined his dreams of playing in the NFL. Tyler remained in positive spirits, stating “When one door closes, another opens and I view my diagnosis as an opportunity to share my experience and help others.” Since that time, he has become an active ambassador for the Pro Player Foundation and the National MS Society. “I view my MS diagnosis as a blessing,” he said. “I now have the opportunity to share my journey and empower others living with this disease to make an impact on the MS community.”

Since his diagnosis Tyler has worked hand in hand with the Pro Player Foundation as a Host for Flavors of Austin, Flavors of the Gaslamp and Flavors of New England events that shine a light on MS. The 4th Annual Flavors of Austin will take place on March 7, 2015.

Tyler has also joined the MS Inspiration campaign, launched by Biogen Idec, which allows people living with MS and those important to them to share what is inspiring them to live their life to the fullest.

Tyler’s relationship with his Father, Hall of Fame Legend, Earl Campbell was strengthened due to his MS. With Tyler’s relapse and Earl’s health issues, they worked together to overcome their medical challenges together. They participated in joint physical therapy sessions and Tyler was able to empathize with some of the physical struggles his Father battled since retiring from the NFL. They share a unique and special bond and inspire each other daily.

Tyler was profiled in Momentum magazine in 2013. The article is available online by clicking here.

*Story provided by www.nationalmssociety.org*