EXCLUSIVE: Family of Miamisburg Teen Who Died from Flu Speaks Out

MIAMISBURG -- Tyler Sensenbrenner’s family is still in a state of shock and sadness just days after their healthy and beloved teenager passed away, and it all began with a simple cough.

“Who would have thought, a sore throat and a cough would end this way, you just don’t think that” said Christina Sensenbrenner, Tyler’s mother.

The last few days have been tough for Christina and Jeff Sensenbrenner. Their easy going, happy 14 year old son, Tyler, who was always laced with a smile, died from complications related to the flu.

“It feels like I’m going to wake up and it’s not real.  Everything has happened so fast, and so quick you don’t really have a chance to think about anything other than our son” said the Sensenbrenners.

Tyler was active in school and loved by many.  As a history buff, what would have been his upcoming eighth grade class trip to Washington, D.C. was like a dream come true.

“Every week he’d ask me, daddy, how many more weeks do I have before I go on the trip, and he was planning with all his friends, who’d sleep with who” said Jeff Sensenbrenner, Tyler’s father.

Unfortunately, the flu took a toll on Tyler and his aspirations.

“He was a fighter from the get go.  He was a fighter from the beginning and he fought all the way until the end” said the Sensenbrenners.

Determined not to let his fighting spirit die, Tyler’s family is making it possible for others to live out his dream with a memorial fund, to help pay for future trips to Washington, D.C. in Tyler’s honor. 

The lasting memories of Tyler spawned not only tears by those who loved him most, but a message to parents, from his grieving parents.

“We want everyone to look at their children, give them a flu shot, a big hug and kiss and cherish them” said the Sensenbrenners.

Visitation for Tyler will be held Tuesday at Epiphany Lutheran Church in Centerville from 4-8pm.

For those interested in helping Tyler’s family, visit: www.remembertyler.com to contribute to his memorial fund. 

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