Teen's Thanksgiving Skateboarding Injury Leads to Death, but His Organ Donations Save 7 People: 'A Profound Honor'

Seventeen-year-old Tayden Tomblin from Santa Barbara, California, lost his life after a skateboarding accident on Thanksgiving. He was visiting relatives in Palos Verdes when he fell and sustained a severe head injury. Despite being rushed to Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, he never regained consciousness.

His parents, Tyler and Rosalyn Tomblin, shared that the medical team ensured Tayden did not experience pain and passed away quickly while engaged in an activity he loved.

In accordance with Taydens wishes, his family donated his organs, which ultimately helped seven individuals. His heart, lungs, pancreas, liver, and kidneys were all used for transplantation. The liver was split to benefit two recipients, and each kidney was transplanted to separate individuals. His father described the act as a profound honor that Tayden could provide hope and healing to multiple people.

To honor Taydens memory and promote safety, the family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to establish a nonprofit called Non-Negotiable. The organization will focus on educating young people about helmet safety and distributing protective headgear to children. Funds will also support counseling for Taydens younger sister.

At his high school, Tayden was remembered by the aquatics department as a valued member of the Water Polo and Swim teams, admired for his kindness, playful spirit, and love for the ocean. His influence on friends and teammates was described as lasting and unforgettable.

Author: Olivia Parker