A teenager tragically died after taking part in a 5K run at high school.
Knox MacEwen, 14, was reportedly rushed to the hospital following the sporting event.
People have taken to social media after hearing the heartbreaking news and paid tribute, with one person penning: “That is devastating. Prayers to his family.”
Another says: “Heartbreaking. So sorry for your loss.”
“So awful. Another young person’s life cut drastically short,” writes a third.
MacEwen was a Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) member at Western High School in Davie, Florida.
Sponsored by the U.S. Armed Forces, the program teaches teens ‘self-discipline, self-confidence, and leadership skills.’
The school’s principal, Jimmy Arrojo, announced the devastating news of the teen’s passing.
Arrojo’s statement read: “One of our JROTC students passed away this morning after being transported to the hospital.
“I want to offer my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones, teachers, and classmates as they mourn this great loss.”
Miramar Police informed NBC Florida that officers responded to a medical emergency at Everglades High School at 9 a.m., where the run took place as part of JROTC.
The teen reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest after taking part in the exercise and was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
Mayo Clinic says a cardiac arrest involves a sudden loss of all heart activity due to an irregular rhythm. The medical center also states it’s the leading cause of death in young athletes.
In an interview with Today, Dr. Adam Kean warns: “This is the awful reality… we can’t predict when the terrible event is going to happen.”
Some people experience signs before going into cardiac arrest, such as chest pain, dizziness, and a racing heartbeat, however, they cannot always be an indication.
High-quality CPR and automated defibrillators can significantly aid when a child or teen experiences a cardiac arrest.
In a GoFundMe set up by MacEwen’s family, it’s revealed that the teen’s mom has experienced this unimaginable loss while ‘physically and financially recovering from a hard-fought battle with cancer.’
The fundraiser describes the teen as a ‘revered member of his local community – a JROTC student, a volunteer with the kid’s ministry at his home church; and was a beloved brother, son, grandson, nephew, and friend.’
It adds that the fundraiser aims to help cover funeral expenses while allowing his family to ‘take some time off of work to grieve.’
At the time of writing, over $90,000 has been raised, surpassing its target of $30,000.