Reddick runs with his heart on the track: His son battles tumor

Tyler Reddick Competes Amid Personal Challenges

Pilot Tyler Reddick faced a difficult situation last Sunday, competing with his championship hopes on the line. His wife recently revealed that their newborn son was diagnosed with a chest tumor affecting his heart. Reddick’s son, born in May, has been dealing with serious health complications. The couple shared an update before the race at The Roval at Charlotte Motor Speedway, where Reddick started from the pole position and needed a win to stay in contention for the Cup Series title. The race was won by Shane van Gisbergen, eliminating Reddick from the playoffs. Reddick finished in tenth position. Alexa Reddick, the pilot’s wife, shared details about her son’s condition on social media. The little one has a tumor affecting the renal vein and artery, which forces the heart to work harder.

She explained that this has caused an enlargement of the heart and that her four-month-old son will need to have a kidney removed because doctors determined that it no longer functions.

Alexa Reddick

The surgery to remove the right kidney still has no defined date, but the heart is expected to fully recover. Despite the situation, the little one remains active, playing and interacting with the medical staff. Reddick had kept his son’s health situation private until his wife made the situation public before the race at Kansas Speedway. The pilot commented on his son’s condition in Charlotte, mentioning that, although there are still challenges ahead, the little one is doing better and has gained weight. Reddick, who reached the championship final last year, entered Sunday’s race below the cut line for the drivers. The group was reduced from 12 to eight after the race, eliminating Reddick, his teammate Bubba Wallace, Ross Chastain, and Austin Cindric. Reddick expressed that, at this moment, the situation on the track takes a backseat to what is happening in his personal life. Denny Hamlin, co-owner of Reddick’s car, commented that the team has provided support and resources for the best medical care for Reddick’s son. Hamlin added that the team feels some relief in understanding the path forward, and that he admires Reddick’s ability to perform at a high level despite the situation. Reddick, for his part, thanked for the support received and reflected on the emotional impact on his family. He highlighted the help of many people and the support provided. The driver highlighted that this is the most difficult situation he has faced, and that the decision to compete in Kansas was made in conjunction with his wife, prioritizing the stability of his son.