ORANGE COUNTY, North Carolina (WTVD) -- On Sunday, the Orange County community gathered outside Orange High School to pray for a football player who is fighting for his life.
Thys Oldenburg, 14, suffered a head injury Thursday night after a hard tackle during a game.
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Oldenburg's family said he is in a coma following three surgeries to reduce swelling and bleeding.
During the vigil, loved ones reflected on the young man saying he's funny, smart, and talented on the field.
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"I think the message we got tonight is everybody think strong thoughts," said Al Whitted, Thys' uncle. "Thys is a strong human being and he would like us not to be down, not be depressed, just think strong thoughts about him."
Family members set up a GoFundMe page to help with medical expenses.