Friends and the hockey community from Bend are raising funds to help the Barker family as their oldest son, Tyler, heals after an emergency craniotomy surgery following an accident.

On July 24, after a day in hockey camp in McCall, Idaho, Tyler was recreating with his friends at a lake when he fell from a tree, shattering his skull. He was flown via medical helicopter from McCall to Boise, where he had emergency brain surgery within 5 hours of the accident.

Tyler is at St. Luke's Boise Medical Center with his family. He will need another surgery in 2-3 months to install a custom-molded titanium plate to fully protect his brain and get him back to full healing.

This GoFundMe is to help cover the substantial medical expenses needed for Tyler's care, including emergency care, multiple surgeries, and continued outpatient care, which will be ongoing for months.

Tyler's jersey is number 14, here are 14 Ways to Help the Barker Family:

1.    Make a Donation – Every bit helps and goes a long way. You can donate through this site (GoFundMe) or directly to Brittany (Tyler's Mom) through her Venmo account (@Brittany-Barker-20).

2.    Provide a Meal – Drop off dinner (meal train will be set up once Tyler is home) or send a gift card for takeout. (DoorDash, Instacart are good options too!)

3.    Stay Updated on CaringBridge – Follow their journey and stay informed.

4.    Leave a Message on CaringBridge – Share encouragement or a kind memory.

5.    Send a Card – A handwritten note goes a long way. (Barkers: 63173 Brookstone Ln. Bend, OR 97701)

6.    Play Brawl Stars with Tyler – Connect with him through one of his favorite games.

7.    Call, FaceTime or send a message to Tyler and the Barker family – A friendly voice or message to brighten his day.

8.    Wear a #14 Sticker on Your Helmet – Show your support on the ice/field for Tyler.

9.    Take the Siblings Out – Give them a fun break and time to just be kids.

10.    Help with Carpool – Offer rides for Brittany and Bob to ease their schedule.

11.    Provide for a Night Off – Come hang with Bryce, Sydney, and Tyler so the parents can recharge.

12.    Pick Up Groceries – One less errand means more time for family.

13.    Help Tyler Get Out When He’s Ready – A little fresh air and friendship goes a long way.

14.    Play Your Heart Out – Dedicate your next game, run, or match to Tyler—give it everything you’ve got, just like he does every time he steps on the ice.