Tristan Ballinger grew up in a small farm town in Kentucky with a happy soul and an outgoing personality. At the age of 15, just one month before turning 16, Tristan experienced a traumatic accident leaving him with a life-altering brain injury. His father, Mike, was away on a work trip when he got the call. With a long drive and flight ahead of him, the nerves and emotions were deafening. For Tristan’s family, the following weeks were filled with uncertainty and the wavering unknown if Tristan would survive.

 
After spending a month in intensive care, with much strength and hope, there was relief when Tristan was discharged. The next steps were to begin physical therapy to regain parts of his life he once had just weeks before. The family was referred to Brooks Rehabilitation and soon found themselves traveling to Jacksonville to begin the next part of their journey.

 
Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville welcomed them with open arms. Over the next three to four years, our House became a second home for Tristan and his family. Housing was one less worry and the flexibility to come and go when needed was a blessing for the family during this time.

 
Today, Tristan is 24 years old and has overcome what doctors once said he wouldn’t be able to. His bright, friendly personality shines through to everyone he meets and his time at Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville holds a dear place in his heart. Tristan and his family spent many holidays at the House and created strong bonds with other families experiencing a similar journey. Together, they navigated Tristan’s recovery, celebrated his achievements and created a community with friends who would become lifelong cheerleaders for each other’s story.

 
Tristan and his family returned to the House as volunteers this July to make dinner for families currently in our care. “We wanted to be able to give back to Ronald McDonald House and show them the love they showed us” stated Mike Ballinger, Tristan’s father. When Tristan returned, fond memories rushed back as he remembered some of his favorite moments like laughing during Thursday night bingo and silly karaoke nights with friends and other families.

  
Tristan’s unique story is filled with resilience and love. Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville is honored to be a part of it and to have held a safe space for this family through many years.