EASTLAKE, Ohio–One of two students that survived shooting at Chardon High School is still in the hospital.
Now, survivor Nick Walczak’s mother, Holly, tells details of what her son said happened in the cafeteria Monday morning.
“He was sitting at the table and got up to go to the pop machine,” Holly said. “There were definitely two [bullets] in the neck, one through the arm and then in the back. I think the one in the arm was a shot that actually went through his arm and then is lodged in his neck. He actually still has a bullet still in his cheek and his neck.”
Yet, the situation, Holly said could’ve been a lot worse for her 17-year-old.
“The most important person I need to thank right now is Mr. Ricci, cause he is the person that saved my son’s life,” Holly said. “He is the one that pulled him from the hallway into a room. He’s forever a hero.”
Nick was rushed to Hillcrest Hospital in Mayfield Heights. While his condition is serious, Holly said she has faith in his recovery.
“Nick is still in serious condition, but making small improvements every day,” Holly said. “He was wounded in the arm, neck and back, which created a spinal shock. The doctors are optimistic for his recovery. He still has no feeling in his legs. He’s strong and he’s brave. His age really makes a difference. I know he can do it.”
One of Nick’s biggest supporters is his 20-year-old brother Josh.
“They told me Nick was in (the shooting),” Josh said. “I didn’t know what to think, though. And then I saw him at the hospital. Worst day of my life.”
Josh said he struggles to see his spirited brother in such a delicate state, but can’t wait for what lies ahead.
“Kid’s full of spirit. He’s always in a good mood,” Josh said. “Our relationship’s only going to get a million times stronger after this. I mean, I’m definitely going to be with him every step of the way from here on out.”
The past few days have been a whirlwind for the five victim’s families, but especially for the boys.
“All three were his friends: Danny, Russell and Demetrius,” Holly said. “Three awesome young men and their lives were ended early, but it’s not in vein. They left a mark in all of their lives. And just keep praying for them and for Nick. It’s probably going to be a long hospital stay, but we’ll get through it.
“I think all of us, we don’t even think it’s real,” she said. “You know, it’s like a terrible movie that you’re stuck in. And the families that have had the loss, it’s a guilt for me because they lost and my son was saved. I think that’s the hardest part for me. I feel for them. Every minute, every hour.”