Teens recovering after tug-of-war accident

DENVER – The head of the Colorado Lutheran High School Association says two teen boys are doing well, after an accident that partially severed their hands.

The high school juniors, Henry Barrett and Mitch Helfer, were injured while playing tug of war at Parker Lutheran High School. The game was part of the school's homecoming week activities.

Doctors performed surgery on the two teens over the weekend. Helfer was the most severely injured, having hurt his arm as well.

"We praise the Lord that he's doing well," says Randy Lowe, CEO of the Colorado Lutheran High School Association.

"The surgery was extremely successful. The good Lord worked through those surgeons to reattach the tendons, and all the things you need."

Helfer's parents spoke to students at an assembly, Monday morning.

"From what we understand from the parents the hands and fingers are pink and the blood is flowing," said Lowe.

Henry Barrett is listed in "fair" condition at Littleton Adventist Hospital.

Students who witnessed the accident have had counselors available to them. Lowe says, immediately following the accident, students took off their shirts to wrap up the boys' hands. They also prayed over the teens.

"I think that's a hallmark of what this school is about," said Lowe, "A deep faith our kids have and willingness to stop, drop and pray whenever they need to."

Parker Lutheran High School cancelled its homecoming game on Sunday. That game will be played on Monday, in dedication to the two injured students.

"Not sure what the outcome will be. But that's not the point," said Lowe.

"The point is they're going to play with all their heart and soul, for those two young men."