THE mother of a 10-year-old Co Armagh boy left fighting for his life following a suspected heart attack has appealed for prayers for her son.
John Joe Toner from Clady took ill during school on Friday.
Staff at St Malachy's Primary School, Ballymoyer rushed to the little boy's aid and are understood to have performed first aid before paramedics arrived.
The schoolboy, who is believed to suffer from a heart condition, was rushed to hospital where he last night remained in a serious condition.
Within hours of the little boy collapsing, a Mass was held at St Malachy's Church, Ballymoyer to offer support to his family.
Further vigils were also held over the weekend for John Joe, with the community in the Loughgilly parish rallying behind his parents Maria and Cormac and brothers Michael and Daniel.
Another prayer service is due to take place tomorrow night at St Malachy's Church at 7pm.
People have also been showing their support for the family by changing their Facebook profiles to a woven red heart.
His parents have been maintaining a vigil at his hospital bedside, with his mother last night appealing for people to continue praying for their son.
"I would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support," said Ms Toner.
"People's prayers have been a great strength to us over this difficult time and I would ask people to just keep John Joe in their prayers."
John Joe's school, near Whitecross, have also asked people to think about the young boy.
Principal Justin Toner posted a prayer on the school website which he said John Joe says "every night before going to sleep".
He added: "Faith, hope and love will take us through this difficult time."
