I am not an expert, but I think that is it because Trisquel uses linux-libre
not linux. Linux-libre removes non-free firmwares from linux.
I understand your problems, but the goal here is to be as much free as we
can. Sometimes our lack of knowledge or money make thinks difficult. But know
that you know when you will choose your next computer you will have the
knowledge to choose free hardware.
So if you have to use non-free software for a (preferable short) period of
transition or you don't have the money or the knowledge (to code a free
firmware in your case) it's not a crime ;-)
