The parents of the teenage baseball star lost at sea in shark infested waters have broken their silence ahead of the memorial service.
Louisiana baseball star Cameron Robbins, 18, disappeared in the shark-infested waters of the Bahamas after jumping overboard from a pirate ship while celebrating his graduation.
He was last seen on video swimming in the dark waters around the cruise ship as his friends watched from the deck.
Speaking to a reporter from the New York Post, grieving parents William and Shari Robbins said they 'appreciate' everyone's support at this time.
The heartbroken Shari said: “We are just mourning our son right now.
“We appreciate you calling. Maybe we will be able to talk more later.”
William added: “We appreciate everyone’s support.”
The pair have reportedly been swamped with calls since Cameron jumped off the cruise ship.
The teenager had just graduated high school at University Lab School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He started there in kindergarten and was there until his graduation on May 21.
At the time of his disappearance he was celebrating with his friends.
He also loved to fish and had just got from a weekend trip with his dad and brother.
Reports have suggested he jumped into the water as a dare.
The young man lived in Louisiana with his parents, Will and Shari, and his brother and sister, Cole and Cassie.
He was born on November 1 2004 in Abilene, Texas and adopted a few days later into his Louisiana family, according to a recently published obituary.
The water into which Cameron jumped is notoriously shark infested. There has been speculation the shape of something can be seen moving in the water in the video of Cameron's jump.
Upon receiving the distressing news of the missing boy, the US Coast Guard launched an extensive search operation.
The family have asked for well wishes to make donations in his name to Christian Homes & Family Services in Abilene, Texas.
An obituary released today for Cameron says: "Though he left this world far too soon, he lived a life full of good friends and family. He was funny and kind-hearted, but also intense and driven.
"He doted on his grandparents and he took pride in his work. He will be missed desperately by his family and friends, who will carry their cherished memories of him to eternity."
The young man lived in Louisiana with his parents, Will and Shari, and his brother and sister, Cole and Cassie.
