Among those who turned out on Friday to support injured Limerick boxer Lee Reeves were members of Limerick Treaty Suicide Watch with whom Lee volunteers. Picture: Brendan Gleeson
Hundreds of people gathered in Limerick on Friday to show support for injured boxer Lee Reeves, who has “helped save lives” and “made a difference” in the community.
Lee Reeves, aged 31, from Roxboro, was stretchered from the ring after a heavy knockout defeat at Dublin’s 3Arena last Saturday night and rushed to hospital, where he underwent surgery, before being placed into an induced coma.
By Harvey’s Quay, the people of Limerick showed up for a “night of hope” on Friday organised by Limerick Treaty Suicide Prevention, a group with whom Mr Reeves volunteers.
Wearing T-shirts branded with El Champo Training Camp, friends and neighbours placed candles by his pictures as the sun set.
Crowds heard how “Lee cares about people” and “dedicated countless hours to helping” those who are struggling, making “a difference in people’s lives”.
Mr Reeves lost his mother Cathy to suicide in 2015. He joined Limerick Treaty Suicide Prevention (LTSP) in 2017 and has been an ambassador ever since.
LTSP volunteer David O’Mahony told the Irish Examiner: “I think the whole of Limerick felt so helpless. We didn’t really know what to do, and everyone wanted to do something for him.
“With the wish of Lee’s family, we got together, and we decided we might do a vigil for him. Lee is all about hope”.
According to Mr O’Mahony, LTSP chose Lee as an ambassador as he “embodies everything” they stand for — and is a great advocate for mental health.
“When he does come on patrol, there’s a different atmosphere,” Mr O’Mahony said.
“All the younger people in our group look up to Lee as a role model as well.
“He inspires us and makes us better, and everyone feels a sense of calm when he’s on patrol.”
Over the past week, there has been an “outpouring of love” as nearly €100,000 has been raised online for the Limerick boxer.
Mr O’Mahony added: “All we can do now is just hope and pray that the progress keeps continuing.