Tripp Weed’s legacy: One of hope and healing at Children’s Hospital
Friends and family of Tripp Weed gathered at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital—Midlands on June 20th to see – for the first time – a patient room named in loving memory for the beloved Lexington father, son, brother and friend.
The room, located in the Inpatient Pediatric Rehabilitation Unit, now bears Tripp’s name. The Tripp Weed Foundation has contributed nearly $80,000 to benefit Children’s Hospital, much of which was directed to help open the unit in June 2024. The six-bed unit provides comprehensive rehabilitation services for children and adolescents recovering from life-changing events such as traumatic or acquired brain or spinal cord injuries; near drownings; multi-trauma; and prolonged hospitalization.
In just over a year, the unit has provided care for 45 children, mostly between the ages of 6-17.
“Thanks to the support of our families like the Weeds and our leaders’ belief in bringing this unit to life, South Carolina’s children are now able to stay in state for these very necessary, intensive rehabilitation services to maximize recovery from life-changing events,” said Dr. Colleen Wunderlich, medical director of the Inpatient Pediatric Rehabilitation Unit.
It was nearly 14 years ago when Tripp Weed was driving one his three children, Drew, to football practice when an impaired driver crossed the center line. Tripp was killed instantly, and nine-year-old Drew was critically injured. He was rushed to Prisma Health Children’s Hospital, where he received life-saving care.
“The Children’s Hospital team took care of our whole family during that devastating time,” said Debbie Turbeville, Tripp’s mother. Shortly after, the family established the Tripp Weed Foundation to carry forward Tripp’s name. The foundation has organized an annual golf tournament and other activities to remember Tripp and raise funds for the community.
“There’s a saying that grief is just love with nowhere to go. We’ve poured our love into giving back in Tripp’s name.”
For Tripp’s children, the dedication provided a moment to reflect on how their family’s life intersected with Prisma Health.
“I was granted a second chance at life thanks to the efforts of the doctors, nurses, technicians and every other part of the team that day at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital. And for that I am so thankful, and I know my father is too,” Drew, now 23, said.
“Though I cannot reunite with him just yet, I feel his presence the most when our family, friends and community gather to give back to those who did so much for us. He would be so proud of our efforts, and I am extremely humbled by the outpouring of love we as a family receive year after year.”
Tripp’s brother, Scott Turbeville, added, “Tripp would be tickled to see this today – to see how we are helping the same hospital that saved his son’s life. And to see that so many other children are benefiting.”
