A Texas teenager is in critical condition after contracting a brain-eating amoeba while he was swimming with his friends in a lake about 70 miles north of Houston. Currently, Michael Riley Jr., 14, is at Texas Children's Hospital fighting for life.

Michael has been going through many tests. His condition remains very critical and is not responding well. His family is counting on prayers. On Wednesday night, a prayer meet was organized at Cy-Ridge High School for the teenager, who was starting his freshman year, but could not.

Michael's parents said that there is lot of strength in prayers and especially, coming from students. During the event, one of the coaches asked to pray for Michael. Michael's best friend, Jarrell Reynolds, who was also present at the event, affirmed that he is supporting his best friend, who is like his brother.

Michael is a great sportsperson. Support is coming from all sides. Michael's cross country teammates are making posters and signed with messages of strength. Donations were put into buckets for Riley's family, so they can continue the treatment of Michael.

Reynolds hopes that may God sees how many people want Michael to be back in their lives. For now, Michael is in medically induced coma. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that contracting the brain disease is a rare case.

The disease happens due to exposure to a single-celled organism known as Naegleria fowleri. It is found in warm freshwater such as lakes, rivers and hot springs.