A Winnipeg high school football player who suffered a severe spinal injury during a game two weeks ago has died.
Darius, also known as Dee, required emergency surgery after a game between his team, the Sisler Spartans, and the Tec Voc Hornets on Oct. 17.
Last week, Darius spiked a bad fever and was put into an induced coma.
“The fever did not take it easy on Dee. It caused more complications and more damage than we were already dealing with,” said Ciaralli. “Damage to his organs. Swelling in the brain and damage to his kidneys and liver.”
As of this week, he was no longer in an induced coma or under sedation. However, Stephanie said they were fighting for him to wake up, and on Thursday, the family announced that he had passed away.
“Our hearts are heavy today, but there is comfort in knowing that Dee is no longer suffering,” said Stephanie. “After heartfelt visits and final goodbyes from family and friends, he took his last peaceful breath early this morning, with Jesse and I by his side.
“God called him home far too soon, but his memory and spirit will forever live on in each of us whose lives he touched.”
The family says they are thankful for all the help they have received along the way from doctors, nurses and specialists, as well as neighbours, family, and friends.
“Dee, you are the son I chose to love every single day, without hesitation. I’m so deeply sorry for all that you had to go through these last 12 days, but I am endlessly proud of the young man you became and the path you had just begun to walk,” said Stephanie. “There was a reason you were surrounded by so much love. Your vibrant personality, your humour, and your boundless kindness drew people in and made them feel seen, valued, and cared for.
“You had a way of showing up for people, always loving, always supporting, always treating everyone like family. No matter who they were or where they came from, you offered your heart freely. That kind of love is rare, and it’s something this world needs more of. You reminded us all how powerful it is to simply be there for one another, to lift each other up, and to lead with compassion.”
A GoFundMe page continues to collect funds to help the family with expenses and provide support during this difficult time.