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Tripp Strong: 7-year-old hit by car in Moultrie returns home in time for Christmas

Posted at 5:21 PM, Dec 23, 2019
and last updated 2019-12-23 19:08:54-05

MOULTRIE, Ga. — It's a return home they've waited so long for.

Three months ago Tripp Demott was hit by a car in Moultrie. A life changing event for his entire family.

On the road to recovery, Tripp Strong could be seen across the city.

On Monday, the 7-year-old showed up at the family's tractor business and showed everyone what it really means to be Tripp Strong.

It only takes a moment for a life to change.

"Originally thought it was just a busted head and that he would have to have a few stitches. Met my son and him at the hospital and we got there and learned that he had severe injuries and we had to call a helicopter and he had to be life flighted to Tallahassee," said Scott Demott, Tripp's grandfather.

Tripp was hit by a car while riding his bike on Sept. 11, leaving him in a coma with a severe brain injury.

"He has fought day in and day out. For three months through therapy through things that are painful and uncomfortable. He's really encouraging and motivated us to have the strength to walk with him," said Scott Demott Jr., Tripp's father.

With the news of Tripp's accident, the community rallied around his family. His grandfather's company, Demott Tractor, received an anonymous donation for a mower worth more than $13,000.

To help cover medical costs, the family used the mower as a prize in a fundraiser. On Monday, Tripp had the honor of drawing the winning name.

"It's a blessing. It's the true meaning to Christmas to have that happen," said his grandfather.

While Tripp's recovery is not over, his father says he's just thankful to have his son smiling this Christmas.

"We're so thankful for the miracle God has done through this healing process," said Tripp's father. "To be told the first night of his brain surgery that he wouldn't make it through the night and then just to see where we are at today with him walking, talking, conscious, a good cognitive ability and just on the road for success for recovery."

A road Tripp's walking, showing everyone what it means to be Tripp Strong.

When we talked to Tripp he told me he has two mottos: No pain, no gain and work hard and have a good attitude.

People can donate to the family by sending money through their Venmo account, @Tripp-Strong. Just comment your name and phone number along with the donation.