Tyree Ford, Philadelphia’s DC33

Greetings, my name is Crystal Purnell-bolden, one of the siblings of Tyree Ford. I need your help for our brother Tyree Ford. While picketing for Philadelphia’s DC33 strike. A drunk driver drove towards his fiancé with child and himself. In a split second of selfless bravery, Tyree pushed his pregnant fiancée out of harm’s way. That one act of courage may have saved their lives, but it left Tyree catastrophically injured. He is currently in critical condition. He is a hero. Tyree has a long, painful road ahead filled with surgeries, rehabilitation, and unknown long-term effects both physically and neurologically. His future ability to walk, see clearly, or live independently is uncertain.

Tyree is more than a sanitation worker. He’s a devoted “girl dad” of four, a joyful soul, and the kind of man who lights up a room with his easygoing charm. He’s the guy who keeps people laughing, helps when no one is looking, and gives even when he’s got little to spare.

But today, he can’t speak for himself. He is fighting for his life. I am asking for help on behalf of Tyree.

His injuries are extensive and devastating:

• A fractured skull in six or more places

• Brain bleeding

• A broken femur

• A broken collarbone

• A severely fractured pelvis (front completely separated; back requiring surgical hardware)

• A bruised lung

• Multiple deep lacerations and open wounds on his face, arms, shoulders, and legs

• Eye trauma including a cut to the pupil

• Significant dental damage requiring reconstructive surgery

• Inability to breathe on his own (still on a ventilator)

Tyree has already faced more than most. By age 21, he had lost both of his parents. Soon after, the home he grew up in caught fire, leaving him displaced and grieving. He’s endured hardship with quiet strength and unwavering love for his children and family.

Tyree had two sons who he heartbreakingly lost shortly after birth. His surviving children need him. His fiancée and unborn son are praying for his recovery. All the mothers of his children come together in unity, standing in love and support. That says everything about the kind of man Tyree is.

Now, he needs his village—us.

How You Can Help

Tyree’s medical care and recovery needs will be extensive and long-term. Your donation will go towards unforeseen needs including below:

• Multiple life-saving surgeries

• Physical therapy and mobility equipment

• Eye and dental reconstruction

• In-home care and support

• Mental and emotional health services

• Support for his children

• Legal and disability assistance

• Financial stability as he remains unable to work

Every dollar, every share, every prayer matters. Let’s keep Tyree’s story alive. Let us show him, his children, and his family that his life—and his sacrifice—matter!!!

Please donate if you can and share Tyree’s story. Together, we can help him fight this unimaginable battle.

#JusticeForTyree #SupportAFSCME33 #PrayForTyree