Vigil for Orange County high school football player fighting for his life

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.

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.

"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.