The mother of a young teen injured by fire at F.E. Madill Secondary School in Wingham is asking everyone to pray for her son.
"People need to know how serious this is. My son remains in serious critical condition, and we take it one hour at a time," she said in a statement on Facebook. "Please, everyone, pray for my son."
She asked people to let their children know they are loved.
"Teach them to be nicer to others," she added. "Give these kids hope for a brighter future"
And she thanked everyone for the overwhelming support the family has received.
A GoFundMe account has been set up to help the family, with over $75,000 raised as of Monday morning.
She also asked people to honour her son by playing his favourite song
"Play the song ' Kryptonite ' by 3 Doors Down. Play it loud and sing-along," she continued.
Meantime, a statement released by the Avon Maitland District School Board stressed that the well-being of students and staff remains its highest priority.
"We know that many of you are still processing what happened and carrying a wide range of emotions, including concern, sadness, and uncertainty," said the update from the board. "We want to begin by acknowledging the impact this has had on our students, staff and families, and by holding space for all who have been affected."
Mental health resources will continue to be available to both staff and students in the coming days.
"We encourage anyone who is struggling to reach out as support is available, and asking for help is always welcome," the board said. "It is important that our community understands that we stand with you. We stand with our students as they heal and make sense of what they have experienced. We stand with our staff, who care deeply for one another and for the young people they serve. We stand with our families, whose trust and partnership matter to us."
The board has been working closely with professionals to ensure the building is physically safe and that appropriate supports are in place.
"In moments like these, community is not defined by a building, but by the way we show up for one another, with empathy, patience, and respect," the statement noted. "Thank you for continuing to do just that."
The board is preparing to welcome staff and students back into the building this week, pending approval from external experts who are guiding and supporting the process.
