The parents of Blair Holliday have thanked those who have prayed for their son while he continues to be hospitalized following the jet ski collision he suffered last week.

Holliday, a sophomore receiver at Duke, has remained at UNC Hospitals since colliding with teammate Jamison Crowder on July 4 at Lake Tillery. Medical personnel airlifted Holliday to the UNC Trauma Center.

“Our family would like to extend its sincere gratitude to everyone who has provided thoughts and prayers on Blair’s behalf over the last week,” Holliday’s parents, Leslie and Rick Holliday, said in a statement that Duke released Tuesday. “We have been overcome with the extended love and support.”

Officials from the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission described Holliday’s condition as “critical” following the collision. Art Chase, a Duke athletic department spokesman, said on Monday that there was no update to Holliday’s condition, and in their statement his parents thanked the public for respecting their privacy regarding the condition of their son.

Leslie and Rick Holliday flew cross-country Thursday from the family’s home in Sherman Oaks, Calif., to be with their son in Chapel Hill. A standout athlete at Oaks Christian High, news of Blair Holliday’s accident spread quickly in his home community.

Holliday’s parents thanked Duke coach David Cutcliffe, other assistants and “so many others [who] have been with us every step of the way, oftentimes going above and beyond the call of duty to ensure our comfort and well-being.”

“We cannot express our heartfelt appreciation enough for Duke University and the Duke football family during this time of uncertainty,” Holliday’s parents said in their statement.

Leslie and Rick Holliday also thanked their family members, as well as members of their community in California, for their support. The parents also voiced their appreciation for the staff at UNC Hospitals.

“We firmly believe in the power of prayer,” Leslie and Rick Holliday said in their statement. “And are confident that everyone’s efforts have made a positive impact on Blair.”

Carter: 919-829-8944