Father ‘overwhelmed' by support for talented GAA-loving son in critical condition
The teenager was involved in a serious accident at Fenit at the weekend
The father of Luke Silles (18) said he is grateful for the public support since his son was seriously injured in an accident at Fenit on Saturday that has left him in a critical condition.
A sixth-year pupil at CBS The Green, Luke was enjoying the fine weather with friends close to Fenit Pier when an accident resulted in him having to be removed from the water unconscious.
The National Ambulance Service and Valentia Coast Guard immediately rushed to the scene where CPR and First Aid was administered before Luke was taken to University Hospital Kerry (UHK) where he remains critical.
UHK in Tralee.
News in 90 Seconds - May 22nd
In a statement to The Kerryman, Tony Silles said his family is 'overwhelmed' at the support, prayers and thoughtfulness that is extended to Luke in the days since the accident.
'The amount of well-wishes that have come back through Luke's friends, CBS The Green, and beyond, has been overwhelming for us. We are extremely grateful for this,' Tony said.
'Luke is an extremely positive, thoughtful, outgoing child, boy, and young man. Everywhere Luke has gone he has touched a spark in people so that one would remember meeting him and encountering him. For now, the family ask for your prayers and support at this difficult time. We thank each and every person for doing so. We are deeply grateful for it,' Tony said.
CBS The Green said its school community is holding Luke 'close in our hearts' and thinking of him every day.
'We extend all our strength, love, and prayers your way. To Luke's family and close friends — we are with you,' they said.
'Your courage, love, and resilience inspire us. You are surrounded by a school that cares deeply and stands ready to support in any way we can.'
Management at CBS The Green also said Luke is a valued part of the school family, while the 'gentleness and kindness' of Luke's personality is also mentioned.
'His good humour and bright spirit leave a mark on everyone he meets. We know he's drawing on that same strength now, and we look forward to the day we see his smile in our school community again. Until then, we remain united in hope, in prayer, and in friendship.'
Luke is a pupil of teacher and Fianna Fáil Councillor Fionnán Fitzgerald. The Ballymacelligott-based representative said his thoughts and prayers are with Luke and his family in these difficult days.
'Luke is a very well-liked student and a very popular and highly regarded GAA person. There would hardly be a club grounds in Kerry that the Silles family would not have played in, or have been in, at some stage over the years,' said Cllr Fitzgerald.
'I pray every strength to them, and to Luke's many friends in school, Ballymacelligott, and beyond. He is a great student and I have been graced to have him in my classroom. Your friends everywhere, neighbours and community in Ballymac, are thinking of you and your family at this time. Wishing you and yours well,' Cllr Fitzgerald added.
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