HEARTBROKEN Donegal people have raised €28,000 for the devastated family of young GAA star Lewis Kelly who died tragically.
Malin club player Lewis was only 18 year old when he died on Bank Holiday Monday, days after falling ill.
Broken-hearted friends launched a fundraiser to generate €35,000 for his parents Hugh and Michelle – and the tally soared to €28,000 today.
The organisers said: “Our dear friends, Hugh and Michelle, tragically lost their beloved son Lewis and our hearts are broken for them, his brothers Quinn and Regan, his sister Zevagh, and all the family.
“Lewis’ untimely passing has left the communities of Malin, Culdaff, Glengad and Gleneely devastated.
“Our communities wish to come together to support the Kelly family while they cope with this heartbreaking moment in their lives.
“We are raising funds to help with funeral expenses and everyday costs during this difficult time.
“Our hope is to ease some of the financial burden so that the family can focus on caring for each other while grieving the loss of Lewis.
“Any contribution, big or small, will be greatly appreciated. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser and keeping the Kelly family in your thoughts.
“We thank you for your support and for honouring the memory of Lewis.”
The fundraiser target is €35,000 with €27,062 already raised on the Go Fund Me page called Honouring Lewis – A Community’s Love.
Lewis, from Culdaff, was due to sit his Leaving Cert exams at Carndonagh Community School next month.
Lewis played for Malin against Glenswilly GAA Club in his last match.
He was later transferred to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin where he sadly died.
Lewis’s remains are now residing in the family home in Culdaff.
His Requiem Mass is scheduled for 2pm on Saturday at St Patrick’s Church in Aughaclay with burial in Lagg Graveyard.