Taylor Ceepo, a 22-year-old recent graduate from Walsh University in North Canton, Ohio, passed away while running the Cleveland Marathon. Taylor was running the race when she collapsed during its final leg. She was pronounced dead after being transported to the local hospital. She had collapsed during the race.
During her time at Walsh University, Taylor was a member of the women’s soccer team.
It was her very first marathon.
There was an outpouring of support following her death, including multiple statements from the Cleveland Marathon, her high school, and others.
“It is my sad duty to inform you that a beloved member of our Walsh family, Ms. Taylor Ceepo, collapsed today while running the Cleveland marathon and has passed away,” wrote Amy Malaska, Vice President for Student Affairs in an email to students and staff, via WKYC 3. “Her mother, dear friends and her boyfriend (also a Walsh student) were with her. Our love and deepest sympathies go to her family and loved ones. Your Walsh family will keep you all in prayer.”
Her former high school also commented on her passing, writing on Facebook: “On behalf of the St. Vincent-St. Mary community, we extend our deepest condolences and heartfelt prayers to the parents, family and friends of Taylor Ceepo VM15. Taylor passed away today after she collapsed while running the Cleveland Marathon. We pray that all may find some solace in God’s grace, and support through Taylor’s extended STVM family. We invite our community to join together in prayer at Mass at St. Vincent-St. Mary on Monday morning at 7:15am.”
She had attended St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, the same school as NBA star LeBron James.
No cause of death has been confirmed at this time.
Our deepest condolences go out to Taylor’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult and tragic time.