Hilinski Family tragedy leads to Mental Health Awareness

CLEMSON, SC (FOX Carolina) – Years later, the Hilinskis are turning pain into life-changing advice.

“I look at them and I see Tyler.” Kym Hilinski said. “It hurts as much today as it does in 2018. Changing and possibly saving someone’s life means there really are no words to describe what that means to us.”

In January 2018, Washington state quarterback Tyler Hilinski tragically took his own life. His parents, Mark and Kym, decided to share his story.

“There are so many Tylers out there who are suffering in silence.” Mark Hilinski, the father of Tyler Hilinski, said. “It’s important to tell the story, to give them a chance to articulate in their own minds what they’re thinking and if they need help asking for it.”

The two started Hilinski’s Hope, a nonprofit organization that spreads mental health awareness, education and resources for student athletes.

“After each of our Tyler Talks, we get a hug from every student-athlete in the room who has heard the story of Tyler and our journey,” said Kym Hilinski. “We try to let them know that yes, they are student athletes. Yes. They play sports, but they are much more than their sport. And we emphasize that they need to take care of their mental health.”

The couple brought their powerful testimony to Clemson, speaking with the football and basketball teams.

“This is our life now. We can’t change history,” said Mark Hilinski. “We can only use it to help other people. And I think if it can happen to Tyler it can happen to anyone and we’re not doing that to scare anyone. It’s just a good reason to pay attention.”

If only one life was changed, the Hilinskis feel they have honored their son’s legacy.

“When we do these talks, I can say his name over and over again. I can tell these student athletes how wonderful my son was,” said Kym Hilinski. “Yes, he is no longer here with me physically, but I can feel his presence in all of our Tyler Talks, I know he is here guiding us and helping us and with a sweet little voice. He was like, ‘Hey mom, you got this. And it means more to me than I can really put into words. I am so grateful that I can do it.”

If you know of a student-athlete who is dealing with mental health issues and needs help, visit Hilinski’s Hope website here.

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