On December 30th, 1995, we welcomed our son, Tristan, into this world. He was a bright, vivacious, and funny boy. We were not prepared for what lay ahead of us.
On May 21st, 2001, our son was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a fast-progressing degenerative disease where all of the body’s muscles continually break down. He was five years old.
In light of this tragedy, our family has learned to live within this ever-challenging world, and we’ve learned to find the silver lining in it all. It has been our greatest challenge and our greatest gift.
Today, Tristan is a bright, funny, happy teenager who continues to show everyone around him the true meaning of acceptance.
Dinner at the Empress Hotel, Victoria.
Our family has learned that if you stay open to your journey, you can truly find your way out of the darkness and into a life of purpose, meaning and love. These are the gifts of the journey, and the gifts my son has taught us.
Many years ago, we created the Tristan Graham Children’s Foundation in which we do annual fundraisers throughout the year to help others in need, mainly abused and abandoned animals. To date we have raised over $15,000 which Tristan has donated to the SPCA. For more on our annual walk and our Foundation, please go to
I have also written about our experience in my book, One Rep at a Time. It’s a story of my journey through my son’s diagnosis with lessons of healing learned along the way. It is my gift to my son, and to all parents living through their own dark night. I trust you will find comfort in our story. Pre sales will be announced shortly.
Please, drop us an email. We’d love to hear from you. And remember, you are not alone.
Blessings,
Karen, Neil and Tristan
Please visit www.karenmccoylive.com, and live your best life!
Sensational Karen I feel the love and that is special. Big Hugs to you and Tristan
Hello Tristan and Karen
for your genorosity and kindness in helping animals and mankind (Karen with your personal training) I will also be checking out your website. Keep up the great and wonderful work you are both doing. Feel free to contact me at the email I purchased. Hugs to both
I wanted to write you (I live in Crofton up Island and seen you stories on CHEK the other nite). I am honoured to be able to write you and tell you both how wonderful you both are – giving back to the community. What an awesome story and inspiration you are Tristan to other young people, and so glad you have chosen to help our animal friends. I will be checking out the book you have on this site. Thank you again young friend and mum