Durham Toddler Recovering From Surgery

DURHAM — The parents of a 2-year-old Durham boy spent a tense morning awaiting the outcome of his open-heart surgery. Tyler High is in serious condition in Duke's Pediatric Intensive Care unit, but doctors say the surgery went well.

His parents are relieved that the surgery is over and also because it looks like their lives will be better, too. They say they fear they will soon be evicted from their home because the owner wants to sell it. In the meantime, the furnace doesn't work and doctors say that hasn't been good for Tyler's condition.

WRAL TV5'sAmanda Lambfirst reported on the plight of the High family earlier this week. The family was in a state of panic since both parents are out of work. They feared they might not have a place to take Tyler after his surgery.

But there has been an outpouring of sympathy and offerings of help since the story first aired.

Joe Mingin, who manages Carolina Millwright, has offered to give Leonard High, Tyler's father, a job.

Lloyd Hinson, who plays in a band, wants to perform a benefit concert to help the Highs. Hinson's son Bobby is a school band director and says his father has asked for his assistance in putting the benefit together.

Chrystal High, Tyler's mother, says the family is stunned by all the generosity.

Others have offered assistance as well and Chrystal High says the family deeply appreciates all the offers. She says they plan to respond to everyone as soon as Tyler's condition stabilizes.