ADEL, Ga. (WALB) — At just three years old, Tyler Franklin’s life took a dramatic turn after a fall from a slide led to the discovery of an orange-sized brain tumor.

Doctors diagnosed it as a low-grade pilocytic astrocytoma, pressing dangerously against his brain stem.

Five days later, Tyler underwent surgery. His family was warned he might never talk or walk again. But less than 24 hours after the operation, Tyler woke up speaking — and just six days later, he was back home with no lasting effects.

For nearly a decade, his family believed the worst was behind them. The tumor was removed, and doctors said there was only a 1% chance it would grow back. But in year ten, just as Tyler was on track to be declared in remission, his family got devastating news: He was the 1%.

Jessica Franklin, Tyler’s mother said, “When [Tyler] first got re-diagnosed two years ago, it was really hard on him because he’s able to process everything and understand what’s going on, but lifting and working out has brought him out his shell in a way I never thought was possible.”

Instead of immediate chemo, radiation or another surgery, Tyler’s medical team decided to monitor the tumor with MRIs every six months. At the same time, another battle was becoming clear.

Tyler had gained significant weight after his first surgery — a common side effect — and by January 2025, he weighed more than 300 pounds.

His family knew that if another brain surgery became necessary, a healthier body would give Tyler the best shot at recovery. That’s when they committed to change together.

In May, Tyler began training at Iron Works Gym in Nashville, where his coach, Danielle Cross, encouraged him to try powerlifting.

Cross said, “We start at 65% of his max, which was already 335 pounds. He’s done that for six reps then he goes up in weight and down in reps, every week. He’s going to be lifting in the high 300s, and for his age, that’s phenomenal.”

Tyler said, “I actually like coming to the gym more often now since I started deadlifting, and being able to lift more weight is my goal.”

The transformation hasn’t just been physical. Tyler’s confidence has soared, his grades improved and he even earned multiple school medals.

Donald Franklin, Jr., Tyler’s father, said, “He’s had a lot of obstacles, but watching him be able to overcome that — and I think the gym has helped a lot with his confidence and learning how to cope and overcome different things.”

“Anything is possible and nothing’s impossible,” Tyler added.

On Saturday, Sept. 13, Tyler will participate in his first Georgia State Championship powerlifting competition. His team, “Team Tigs,” is sponsored by Doughboys Pizza, Classy Paws and Danielle Cross Iron Werks Gym.

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