THE uncle of a Co Down teenager who suffered a brain aneurysm while on holiday in Gran Canaria has told of how his nephew has taken an "unbelievable step forward" in his recovery after being moved out of intensive care.
Jamie Doyle (18) from Banbridge was transferred onto a normal ward in the Spanish hospital on Friday night.
It comes just three weeks after he was placed in an induced coma after collapsing while on holiday with his parents Mary and Stephen, and friend George.
He has undergone three brain surgeries since his collapse, with his family fearing the worst after doctors told them the teenager would be in an induced coma for between four to six weeks.
But on Christmas Eve, he squeezed his mother's hand and the following day, he recognised both his parents.
His uncle Willie Fitzpatrick last night told The Irish News of how Jamie is "on the right road to recovery".
"Last Wednesday the doctors said they thought he had a bleed on the brain," he said.
"But the doctors said to Mary on Friday that it was just little fluid and his bloods were ok. Then she contacted me on Friday night to say that he was being moved from ICU to a ward, it's just unbelievable.
"It is a miracle, an unbelievable step forward. Three weeks ago he was given a 50/50 chance and now look at him.
"He had a long way to go, but he is on the right road to recovery."
Jamie, a barber and talented amateur boxer, was previously diagnosed with a brain condition which he may have had since birth.
While Mr Fitzpatrick said his nephew will soon have to undergo another operation, the doctors are optimistic about his recovery.
"It is a massive relief, especially for Mary and Stephen," he said.
"The doctors in intensive care wished him well. He has come so far and I know he will continue to fight on."
Mr Fitzpatrick is continuing to care for Jamie's brothers Dominic (23), Jude (16) and Callum (13) while their parents remain at their son's bedside. The family also has an older son, 25-year-old Thomas.
He also thanked all those who had contributed to an appeal to raise money towards Jamie's medical bills and accommodation costs. Almost £73,000 of the £100,000 target has been raised so far.
"The support has been unbelievable, people from all the sides of the community have come forward and gave money, it is amazing," he said.
"Some people with next to nothing have given their last penny, that means so much to know that people are behind Jamie and the family."
Donations towards Jamie's medical bills and costs can be made via www.gofundme.com/f/help-save-jamies-life
