Memorial scheduled for boy at Kaiser Elementary

Family and friends will celebrate the life of Myles “Smiles” Thames on Friday at Kaiser Elementary School, where the 9-year-old attended before he died last week.

The public event is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. on the school’s field, 2130 Santa Ana Ave., Costa Mesa.

Organizers ask that those who wish to attend enter through the school’s gate on 21st Street. Because the ceremony will be on the grass, bringing chairs or blankets is suggested.

Thames, who was in third grade, collapsed at a Boys & Girls Club in Costa Mesa on Thursday and was pronounced dead at Hoag Hospital. He succumbed to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a thickening of heart muscle that makes it difficult for the heart to pump blood.

In lieu of flowers, the family has set up a bank account to help cover costs. Those wishing to help can deposit money at any Chase bank branch to account No. 3035315737. Cards and contributions can also be mailed to Michelle Thames, 92 Corporate Park, Irvine, CA 92606.

—Joseph Serna

Twitter: @JosephSerna