SALISBURY, N.C. — Livingstone College officials in Salisbury said Thursday that a student at the school has died from COVID-19.
The school said 23-year-old Jamesha Waddell, who was a senior, left campus on Sept. 19 and was self-isolating at home after contracting the virus.
While isolating, Waddell’s condition worsened and she was admitted to the hospital in the intensive care unit. Waddell died Thursday morning.
Her grandmother shared her thoughts in a Facebook post: “One of my prettiest roses is being plucked -- my right arm -- my jack of all trades -- and master of them all.”
A friend said Waddell was an independent and hard-working young woman. Friends and family members want people to take the virus seriously.
“I don’t need anyone to tell me this virus is not real,” a friend said. “I don’t want to hear about it not affecting the young.”
Waddell’s cousin said other members of the family contracted the virus, including her mother, uncle, grandmother and stepfather.
“Our prayers and heartfelt condolences are extended to the Waddell family and her loved ones during this very difficult time. However, we should be reminded that earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal,” the school said.
Livingstone College said grief counselors are being made available for students. Here is the phone number to contact a counselor: 704-216-6990.
Read the statement from the college here.
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