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Young girl dies after collapsing at school in Kentucky

Nine-year-old Lucy Nash collapses and dies on first day of school

A young girl tragically died after collapsing on her first day back at school. Fourth grader Lucy Nash returned to Cairo Elementary in Henderson, Kentucky on August 7, after the summer break. The nine-year-old experienced a ‘cardiac event’ during recess and was rushed to Riley Children’s Hospital.

Medical experts declared Lucy brain dead due to the prolonged lack of oxygen to her brain following her collapse. She remained in the hospital for five days, during which her family stayed by her side. She passed away on August 12. In an emotional Facebook post, her father, Ryan Nash, described Lucy as a ‘sister, lover, catcher, reader, cartwheeler, naturalist, singer, LEGO master builder, child of god, and friend of anyone’.

“We had 9 years, 56 days of a joyous, carefree, and compassionate life together,” the post read. “Despite the unexplainable agony, I’m grateful for every hour.”

Ryan also expressed gratitude for the staff at Riley, Deaconess Gateway, and Henderson Hospitals, as well as EMTs and teachers, for giving the family five days to hold Lucy’s hand, sing her favorite songs, read her bedtime book, and cherish their time with her.

The cause of Lucy’s collapse remains unknown at school.

In her memory, a GoFundMe page has been set up by her step-father’s sister, raising over $9,400 so far. The family also launched a campaign called ‘Pinkies Up For Lucy,’ encouraging people to wear pink in her honour.

“We don’t have arrangements yet. We don’t know who Lucy will be helping yet. We want the community, which has surrounded her with so much love and prayer, to mourn and thank god for her life with us. Wear your brightest pink #PinkiesUp4Lucy,” her father wrote online.

Local news reports that Lucy’s organs will be donated to those in need.

For those grieving and seeking support, contact The Compassionate Friends at (877) 969-0010.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions asked about this news

What happened to Lucy Nash?

Lucy Nash collapsed during recess on her first day back at school and later died after a cardiac event.

How long was Lucy in the hospital?

Lucy remained in the hospital for five days before she passed away.

What is ‘Pinkies Up For Lucy’?

‘Pinkies Up For Lucy’ is a campaign where people wear pink to remember Lucy Nash.

How much has been raised on Lucy’s GoFundMe page?

Over $9,400 has been raised on Lucy’s GoFundMe page.

Will Lucy’s organs be donated?

Yes, Lucy’s organs will be donated to those in need.

Lee Shuyi

Lee is an expat writer living in Thailand. She specialises in Southeast Asian news for the Thaiger. When she's not writing, Lee enjoys immersing herself in Thai culture and learning Thai.

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