WWE Heroes and Invisible Illness: Trystan’s Journey of Strength and Dreams
- Turnbuckle Tribe Family
- Jan 15
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 16
Meet Trystan, an 11-year-old boy whose strength, courage, and resilience rival that of any superhero. While he may not wear a cape, Trystan is battling invisible illnesses daily, showing us all the true meaning of bravery. Despite his challenges, he’s a dreamer, an innovator, and an inspiration, finding joy in life and living vicariously through his WWE heroes, Jey Uso and Roman Reigns.
Trystan’s Diagnosis: A Complex Battle with Invisible Illness
Trystan’s journey is shaped by a rare connective tissue disorder that affects every aspect of his daily life. His ligaments act like overstretched rubber bands, leaving his muscles to perform double duty. This constant strain results in extreme fatigue, joint pain, and the risk of long-term joint damage. Most people with this condition face a reduced life expectancy of 48 years, frequent joint replacements, and potential organ failure due to overworked muscles.
Trystan also battles additional diagnoses, including:
Left Ventricular Hypertrophy (LVH): An enlargement of the heart's left ventricle, requiring monitoring.
Mitral Valve Regurgitation: A condition where the heart’s mitral valve doesn’t close properly, causing blood to flow backward.
Chronic Migraines: Resulting from scarring on the part of his brain that controls coordination, these debilitating headaches further impact his quality of life.
Heat Intolerance: Exacerbates fatigue and can lead to fainting or heightened heart rates.
Ehlers Danlos Syndrome: A connective tissue disorder directly related to his diagnosis of extreme hyper-mobility
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: A disorder causing floating knee caps and sanding away at the knee cap bone.
Syncope: Sudden fainting caused by the sudden heating of the cranium (brain boils) which lead to migraines.
PFAPA: Periodic fever syndrome. causing unexplained fevers ranging as high as 106.3.
To manage these conditions, Trystan undergoes physical and occupational therapy, is followed by a rheumatologist, genetics, neurologist, immunologist, pulmonologist, cardiologist, uses mobility aids like a wagon for outings, and receives bi-weekly injections administered by his parents.
WWE Superstars as Role Models
Amid his challenges, Trystan has found heroes in Jey Uso and Roman Reigns. These WWE icons embody the strength and perseverance that inspire him to keep pushing forward. While Trystan knows he can’t physically step into the ring, he dreams of becoming a WWE commentator or announcer—roles that would allow him to be part of the action without compromising his health.
His imagination fuels his spirit, and his realistic outlook is a testament to his wisdom and determination. For Trystan, the WWE ring represents more than entertainment; it’s a symbol of his dreams and the limitless possibilities ahead.
Navigating Life With Creativity and Determination
Trystan’s life requires adaptations that most people never consider. His energy levels—what he calls his “gas tank”—determine how much activity he can handle on any given day. After just a few hours of physical movement, he may need up to three days to recover fully.
To make life more manageable, Trystan’s family has embraced tools and strategies such as:
A Special Wagon: Designed with a stroller-like handle, it helps him conserve energy and provides a seat when exhaustion sets in.
Shower Chair: Ensures safety during daily hygiene routines by preventing falls from lightheadedness.
Cooling Devices: Rechargeable neck and handheld fans combat heat intolerance during outings.
Limited Activity Windows: Outings are planned within three-hour limits to avoid overexertion.
Low-Impact Activities: Swimming, visiting zoos, aquariums, and museums provide enjoyment without undue physical strain.
Homeschooling has also allowed Trystan to rest on challenging days while thriving academically when he feels strong. Every step his family takes is aimed at preserving his joints, minimizing pain, and extending his quality of life.
Advocating for Awareness and Kindness
Trystan and his family are passionate about raising awareness for invisible illnesses. Their hope is to change public perceptions, encouraging people to replace judgment with understanding. When others see someone who appears "lazy" or "tired," they hope for reactions of empathy: "Wow, they must be strong to be out here despite their challenges."
By sharing Trystan’s story, they aim to inspire kindness and acceptance for everyone facing unseen battles.
A Bright Future
Despite his diagnoses, Trystan’s spirit shines brightly. His love for animals, nature, and WWE continues to motivate him. He dreams of one day stepping into a WWE ring—not as a wrestler but as a commentator or announcer, telling the stories of his heroes and connecting with the sport he cherishes.
Trystan reminds us all that strength isn’t just physical—it’s found in resilience, determination, and the ability to adapt. He’s proof that dreams have no limits, no matter the challenges we face. To Jey Uso, Roman Reigns, and everyone in WWE: your fan, Trystan, is already a champion living life with a spirit as fierce as the superstars he admires. "Living with autoimmune challenges can be tough, but I find strength and excitement through the electrifying world of WWE wrestling. It’s my passion, and I dream of one day becoming a commentator or ring announcer, bringing the same energy and inspiration to fans that WWE has given me." - Trystan (My parents help me run this website, using blogs to connect with WWE fans and raise awareness about invisible illness and the challenges faced by children with autoimmune conditions)
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