Nationwide — Jean Byrd, an African American mom from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, collapsed from cardiac arrest simply earlier than she may see her daughter graduate from Parkland Excessive College. She was rushed to the hospital however later died. In keeping with WXII 12, Byrd had come to look at her daughter, Meilean, obtain her highschool diploma. As she walked within the car parking zone towards the venue, she collapsed. Her sister rapidly known as Byrd’s son, Marquan Matthews, who was already inside. A safety guard drove him to the scene on a golf cart, and he carried out CPR till paramedics arrived.
Whereas the tragedy occurred, Meilean walked throughout the stage and obtained her diploma. A steerage counselor quietly pulled her apart afterward and introduced her to the hospital, the place she realized the information.
Byrd had lengthy battled coronary heart issues and survived two earlier coronary heart assaults. Her household remembers her as a joyful, loving presence. Marquan described her as energetic, compassionate, and a secure haven for a lot of kids.
Initially from Philadelphia, Byrd’s household hopes to put her to relaxation there. They’ve launched a GoFundMe marketing campaign to assist with funeral bills. It has to this point raised over $11,000.