A fundraising page set up in memory of Jerry Thompson has raised £2,500 in the space of a week.
Carrick Rangers footballer Thompson passed away last Tuesday, December 11, leading to an outpouring of grief from the Northern Ireland football community.
His death prompted Irish League fan Gemma Caddell to start up a GoFundMe page to help support the 24-year-old's family with burial costs, and to support his seven-month-old son Thiago.
The page hit £1,000 within its first thee hours of launching, and now it has closed with the fantastic sum of £2,500.
"We hit our target within three hours but we kept the page running for seven days," said Gemma.
"I am absolutely delighted with the amount that was donated by people and also how many people shared it for me on both Facebook and Twitter.
"I always knew the Irish league family would come together and support it but they have really surpassed themselves.
"Added to this the fact that others have done bucket collections and a new Twitter page has been set up to help other fans and players is great to see.
"This is something positive to come about following something so tragic."
The final total was rounded up to £2,500 following a last-minute donation, and will now be handed over to Jerry's family.
"I have been in contact with Jerry's sister and mum, and once the money is released I will hand the money over," Gemma added.
Anyone who needs to talk to someone about mental health issues can call the Samaritans on 116123 or Lifeline on 0808 808 8000.
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