Jessica Sloan, a former swimmer for Texas A & M University and aspiring pilot, has died aged 28 after a three year battle with cancer.
Sloan’s death was revealed by her mother in a post shared on social media.
“Jessica passed away and went to be with Jesus in Heaven at 12:38 am Monday September 23rd. I was so unprepared for her passing because I truly thought the Lord would heal her here on earth. Cary, Jacob, Cristian and I are all devastated. We find comfort in knowing she is so happy and healthy now in Heaven,” she wrote.
A Celebration of Life/Memorial Service has been organized for her Mike Barksdale’s Hanger located at Conroe- North Houston Regional Airport on Monday, October 7th, 2024 at 11:00 a.m.
Jessica Sloan was diagnosed with grade 3 anaplastic astrocytoma, brain tumor in her right temporal lobe in 2021. Sloan at the time was working at a flight school in Texas as the lead flight instructor and was just a few flight hours away from qualifying to apply to be airline pilot.
Following her diagnosis, she underwent brain surgery in March 2021 and began 12 months of oral chemotherapy in July. A new setback emerged in December 2022 when she was diagnosed with a low grade tumor in her cerebellum.
Jessica’s illness prevented her from fulfilling her dream but she kept working in aviation as she battled her illness. On August 30th, 2024, Sloan was released from MD Anderson. She continued to battle issues with double vision and balance.
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On September 17th, she was rushed back to the hospital. A week later on September 23rd, she passed away.
Her mother kept the world appraised of Jesssica’s condition every step of the way on social media and news of her death sparked tributes from distraught social media users.
“My greatest years in the pool, was when she right beside me. The greatest lane buddy I ever had. She was fiercely strong and the biggest hype woman. I love you guys and sending all my hugs and prayers,” one post read.
Another said: “What a privilege it was to grow up next to Jessica. From that first time she invited me over to swim in the Sloan’s pool-she was who I wanted to be like. She helped mold me into wanting to be a better swimmer and her dedication was unmatched. She is and will be the strongest and toughest person I know. I am so incredibly sorry for your loss.”