'It's in God's hands': Father of Limerick boxer Lee Reeves on son's recovery battle
Huge outpouring of support as 200 people attend vigil for hospitalised boxer
THE father of champion boxer Lee Reeves has paid a warm tribute to the Limerick public for their solidarity, and said his son’s recovery is “in God’s hands”.
Lee’s dad, Tony Clancy was speaking to Limerick Live at a specially organised vigil where almost 200 people turned out on the banks of the Shannon to show their solidarity with the Roxboro man, who remains in hospital after suffering a heavy knockout during his bout against Gary Cully at Dublin’s 3Arena last Saturday.
There’s been an outpouring of support since the dreadful news, and almost €100,000 has been raised to support Lee and his family.
“It’s been unbelievable. It’s been heartfelt. The prayers going around. We don’t know what to say as a family. We are so appreciative and Lee is going to be so delighted when he comes around that the people have done this for him,” added Tony, who was wearing a ‘Team Reeves’ baseball cap.
“It’s Limerick isn’t it? This is what people do. It means everything, and we hope to God it is helping. It is in God’s hands,” he added.
The vigil was organised by Limerick Treaty Suicide Prevention, the charity where Lee is an ambassador, and is regularly out on patrol with volunteers along the banks of the Shannon.
At the event, white t-shirts were given out, and candles which bore the name ‘El Champo’, Lee’s nickname were placed below a photographic collage prepared by the charity’s volunteers.
The display will remain at the Harvey’s Quay boardwalk through the evening as Limerick Treaty Suicide Prevention volunteers carry out their regular patrol.
PRO David O’Mahony said: “The only thing we could do was come together and show him the support he has given so many of us. He’s been our anchor. He’s been our ambassador for over a decade. He’s been our light in the dark. He’s always inspired us.”
Many members of the group have said prayers, David added, with many venturing to Knock to seek divine intervention in the hope the boxer recovers.
Charity founder Matt Collins said: “People have shown tonight what they think of Lee Reeves. It’s one thing saying it on Facebook, but to see it is amazing, it’s phenomenal.”