Buffalo Grove HS security guard in coma after trying to shield students from falling pole: family
'I know for a fact that if he were given a chance, he would do it again,' Orlando Rivas' cousin said.
BUFFALO GROVE, Ill. (WLS) -- Orlando Rivas' family says he is in a coma after undergoing surgery after he was brought to the hospital to help relieve brain swelling.
The security guard's loved ones are remaining positive during this difficult time.
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"He's just a great guy, you know, he did that all for his family to provide for his wife, Erin, could stay home with the kids and teach them and love them," said Keith Tennyson, Rivas' cousin.
Rivas' family and loved ones consider him a hero. The 52-year-old was seriously injured outside Buffalo Grove High School on Tuesday. Police say a car leaving the high school parking lot hit a pole that fell on top of Rivas. His family says he was trying to shield students as school let out.
"He's touched a lot of people. He's got an infectious personality. He is so selfless, as you can see by his acts of, you know, risking himself for other people and being in a situation that he's in. I know for a fact that if he were given a chance, he would do it again," Tennyson said.
Rivas suffered a traumatic brain injury and is still at the hospital on Friday.
"He is in critical condition. He is in a coma," Tennyson said. "We say positive things to him. We believe that he can hear us. I call him, 'Superman.' I know you're going to get through this. We're going to get through it together."
Rivas has four children, ranging in age from 4 to 30 years old. He is the son of longtime Chicago White Sox Chef Roy Rivas. ABC7 is told that Rivas also worked for the team, helping with security and parking, and his role at Buffalo Grove High School was meant to be his retirement job.
He is deeply loved and respected by students and staff. His family has been grateful for the outpouring of support from the school and community.
"We're being strong. We're being positive. We're all coming together," Tennyson said. "I just want everyone to pray for Orlando Rivas, because he deserves it."
A GoFundMe page setup to help the family has already raised over $87,000.
Buffalo Grove police said no citations or charges have been filed.
