Drowned teen laid to rest

Young people are being urged to seek help when they feel overwhelmed and pressured with trying to maneuver the challenges of life.

The plea was made by the father of Iverson Thomas, the 16-year-old teenager who drowned at Flower Pot beach in Pointe-a-Pierre last Tuesday. His body was discovered at the Labidco Estate port in La Brea last Friday.

At his funeral on Friday at Guide’s funeral home in Couva, Ivan Thomas said the corrections offered by parents are to steer children on the correct path, not to punish them.

Thomas said emotions are difficult to manage and should not be done alone but often, they (teenagers) view this help as an interference in their lives.

“You all are the future of our nation and we need you to play responsible roles in society.”

He said Iverson, attempted to hide his activities, feelings and frustrations from his family, the last of which resulted in his death.

Thomas said, “All young person hearing my voice, I urge you to practice obedience. The bible said honour your father and mother on the days that you belong on earth.

“We as your parents were once your age and once walked the road that you are currently journeying. When we correct you, it is not because we do not love you, but we want you to be thoughtful in your actions.”

Iverson, a student a Marabella North Secondary School was scheduled to write CXC examinations in July. His father described him as very passionate and bright.

“He was a very curious young man always asking questions and exploring new things. One of his teachers described him as a genius. As a parent I felt so proud.”

“I knew that he had a bright future and his passion was to become a software engineer,” he said.

Family, friends and well-wishers wore printed t-shirts with a picture of Iverson as a tribute to him, on his last day with them.

His grandmother Ana Frederick said, “We are saddened that such as young, bright and loving child was take away from us.

“Our minds and hearts a settled a little bit. At least we were able to say goodbye, but our lives will never be the same again.”

Reports said that Iverson and another teenager, 19, went for a swim at about 10 am on Tuesday. When Thomas got into difficulties, the friend tried to help him, but had to swim ashore to get help from a passers-by.