A heartbroken father has issued a warning following the death of his son, who lost his life after swimming in a popular spot in South Carolina.
A family has been grieving the loss of 12-year-old Jaysen Carr.
He contracted the deadly brain-eating amoeba, Naegleria fowleri, when he went swimming in Lake Murray.
According to the CDC, Naegleria fowleri is a free-living ameba that thrives in fresh waters.
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The family's lawyer, Tyler Bailey, issued a statement on their behalf and said: “Jaysen’s family is grieving this unthinkable loss, but they are also grateful at the outpouring of love and support they have received from the community.
“The family has many questions about how and why Jaysen died and wants to do everything in their power to ensure this doesn’t happen to another family.”
Jaysen’s father, Clarence Carr, has issued a follow-up statement and argued there needs to be increase awareness about the infection.
“I can't believe we don't have our son. The result of him being a child was losing his life. That does not sit well. And I am terrified it will happen to someone else,” Clarence told the Associated Press.
The dad added: “My son lost his life swimming. We assumed it was safe.”
This comes after he discovered that South Carolina, like many other US states, doesn’t have any legislation mandating public reporting of deaths or infections caused by the amoeba.
Jaysen health quickly deteriorated after he went swimming in the lake over the July Fourth weekend.
After exposure, most humans die within one to 18 days. The infected person typically goes into a coma first before dying after around five days afterwards.
When Jaysen returned home he told his parents that he had a headache and felt sick. He eventually had to be rushed to the hospital but died on July 18.
The family has since made a GoFundMe page in hopes people will donate to help support the family.
The donation page's statement read: “The Carr family is grieving the unimaginable loss of their beloved son, Jaysen. He was an incredible son, a devoted brother, and a true friend to everyone who knew him. His kind heart and bright spirit left a lasting impact on everyone he met.
“Jaysen bravely faced a tough medical battle, and while his strength inspired so many, the journey has left the Carr family with numerous unexpected expenses. As they navigate this heartbreaking loss, we want to come together to help ease their burden.
“Please consider donating to support the Carr family during this devastating time. Your generosity will help cover expenses and give them space to grieve without the added weight of financial stress. Every donation, share, and prayer means the world.”
So far $55,000 dollars of its $70,000 target has been raised.
Topics: Health, News, US News, Parenting, South Carolina
Gerrard Kaonga