Mercer Island High School (MIHS) administrators informed the community on June 7 of the tragic loss of student Eliot Abramson, who died after being struck by a lacrosse ball during a game. According to a letter from the school, Abramson was hit in the back of the neck below his helmet during play and lost consciousness.
Paramedics were called to the stadium, and he was rushed to Harborview Medical Center, where he later died.
A celebration of life for Abramson will be held at 6 p.m. on June 15 at Herzl-Ner Tamid Synagogue.
In a statement, school administrators described him as a loving friend, an exceptional student, and an avid lacrosse player with a smile that could light up the room. They urged the community to keep his family and friends in their thoughts during this difficult time.
In an Instagram post, Abramson's mother, Jessica, shared that her son had obtained his driver's license a few months ago and courageously decided to become an organ donor. The family is proud of his decision, noting that he will save many lives.
"While Eliot's time on earth will end way too soon, we are comforted that he will be in heaven with his dad, making him laugh, playing music with his smile lighting up the room. We're sure he'll be doing 'wall ball' in the sky and rooting for all his friends," she wrote.
Mercer Island Lacrosse posted a comment on Jessica's Instagram page, expressing love for the family and noting that Eliot was always smiling, no matter how hard they were working. The club said they will never forget their #9.
A community memorial filled with notes, flowers, and gifts was set up at the MIHS stadium. On June 9, as the Reporter visited the site, two lacrosse players were seen practicing on the field nearby, a poignant reminder of the sport Abramson loved.