A heartbreaking incident has shaken a community, leaving many in mourning. Sienna Stewart, an 18-year-old high school graduate, passed away suddenly during her graduation ceremony, leaving behind a legacy of courage and resilience. Sienna’s life was marked by her bravery in the face of adversity.
At just 4 years old, she was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, a condition that weakened her heart. Four years later, she underwent a heart transplant, which allowed her to live a relatively normal life for a decade. However, earlier this year, her health began to decline again. Despite her struggles, Sienna was determined to attend her graduation ceremony on May 23, 2024.
When she collapsed during the event, paramedics were already on the scene, trying to revive her. Her mother, Saevon Chum, described the moment as “very distressing” and recalled how Sienna had been experiencing episodes of collapse in the months leading up to her graduation.
In a remarkable display of strength, Sienna regained consciousness and insisted on attending the ceremony, despite her mother’s concerns. “All she told me was, ‘I just want to graduate, I want to walk,'” Saevon remembered. “That’s all she wanted, because she missed her prom earlier when she was in the hospital.” Tragically, Sienna passed away on June 12, just weeks after achieving her goal of graduating. Her mother expressed her pride in Sienna’s determination, saying, “As a mom, you feel so proud because she fought through something that hurt her. You have to be proud. I was proud until the end.”
Sienna’s obituary revealed her plans to pursue a college education in sonogram technology, a testament to her ambition and enthusiasm for life. Her community remembers her as a young woman who faced her health challenges with courage and grace. Rest in peace, Sienna Stewart. Your legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew you.